Gaylia Hawthorne Obituary

Gaylia Ann Clift Hawthorne (Gay) passed away peacefully on July 9, 2025 at the age of 86 in Searcy, Arkansas. She was born December 18, 1938 in Malvern, Arkansas to James Carl and Mary Agnes Clift.
Gay was preceded in death by her husband and the love of her life, Darrell Hawthorne whom she married in 1960. She was also preceded in death by her parents, one brother, Calvin Clift, and two sisters, June Carver and Katie Speer.
Gay was a proud graduate of Glen Rose High School where she played basketball and always followed the "Beavers".
Gay and Darrell built a loving family that she leaves behind to carry on their legacy. She is survived by son Mike (Leigh Anne) of Searcy, grandson Andrew (Maegan) and her very special great-grandson John Michael of Byhalia, Mississippi who will miss "Meme" dearly.
She is also lovingly remembered by her brothers Noel (Sandra) Clift, Norman (Joyce) Clift and sister Dottie Bailey and brother in law Junior Speer all of Malvern, numerous nieces and nephews, as well as dear friends Charlie and Judy Keen and Mike and Theresa Hurley and many other loving family members and friends.
After Darrell's death, Gay moved to Jackson & Company Luxury Senior Living where she was living when she passed. There she had very special caregivers who became family. She loved Dee Maddux and Joy Miles and they loved their "Peach". The family would like to thank these and the other special caregivers at this home for their amazing care and experience.
Gay was a devoted member of Park Avenue Baptist Church where she was active in her Sunday School Class and enjoyed baking pies and cakes for the youth fundraisers. She was a business woman and enjoyed her time working. Gay served on the board of trustees for Central Baptist College and worked and served on other boards during her working years.
Gay was a strong Christian woman who loved her Lord, her family, and her church. She leaves a legacy for all who loved her as a strong, loving woman. She will be greatly missed by all.
Gay's life will be celebrated at a service on Monday, July 14, 2025 at Powell Funeral Home in Searcy. Visitation will begin at 11 followed by the service at 12 noon. Burial will take place at White County Memorial Gardens following the service.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to all of the caregivers at Jackson & Co and the amazing nurses, aides and other special people with Gentiva Hospice for their exceptional care and service.
In Lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Park Avenue Baptist Church at 211 East Park Searcy, Arkansas.
Arrangements are entrusted to Powell Funeral Home of Searcy. www.powellfuneralhome.net