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Phyllis Mae Lay

Phyllis Mae Lay

Phyllis Mae (nee Jimerson) Lay, of Gowanda, NY, “The Best Lay on the Rez” passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, August 18, 2019 at the age of 94 years.

She was born on July 5, 1925 on the Cattaraugus Indian Reservation to the late LeRoy and Amelia (Kennedy) Jimerson Sr.

Phyllis was the beloved wife of the late Maxwell C. Lay Jr., dearest mother of Sherry (Dale Strawder) Casey, Marty (Rod Parker) Lay of Gowanda, David (Sue) Lay of West Bloomfield, MI, the late Sheldon Lay and AFS mother to Gudrun Jensen of Denmark. She is also survived by 4 grandchildren, Chris Buzzard, Corrie, Kevin, and Brian Lay and 6 Great Grandchildren, Maxwell, Cameron, Eleanor, Lydia, Amelia, Dale and countless nieces, nephews and friends.

Predeceased in death by 3 sisters, Ethel Parker, Norma Armstrong and Betty Thomas and 3 Brothers, David Armstrong, Leroy Jr. and Kenny Jimerson. Sister in law of CaraLeta Brooks and Kathryn Wheeler.

Phyllis worked for Marine Midland Bank as a drive-in teller in Gowanda and Hamburg for a total of 14 Years. She was the first Manager for the new Seneca One Stop in Irving. She was also an elections inspector for the Town of Collins for 64 years. In 1985 Phyllis and Max opened their own business known as the Teepee Bed and Breakfast, Closing in September of 2018. Phyllis had a full life. She was an avid gardener and was on chase crew for a hot air balloon owner. In her younger days she enjoyed sports, such as softball (pitcher), horseshoes, bowling and playing pinochle. At the age of 50 years she bought and learned to drive a motorcycle. In recent years she played words with friends on her Ipad and learned to play Rummikube, which she played daily since March of this year with her family and friends. All along with raising a family she so loved. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Hospice Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd. Buffalo, NY 14227.

Friends may call Friday August 23 from 4-8 PM at the Wentland Funeral Home 10634 Main St. (Rt 62) North Collins, NY. where a celebration of her life will be held Saturday, August 24 at 11 AM. at a later date Phyllis will be inurned at Arlington National Cemetery. Washington DC, with her husband and next to her son.