John William Gayle

John William Gayle, age 71, passed away on April 1st, 2026. Born on July 8th, 1954, he was the son of the late George West Gayle and Berta Garnett Gayle.

John devoted much of his career to Dow Corning, eventually retiring from there. In his spare time, he loved to go fishing and spend time with his friends and family. He was a talented woodworker and a skilled carver, creating meaningful pieces for those he loved. Those who knew him will remember his excellent cooking, especially his famous ribs and rolls. Throughout his life, he enjoyed working on his grandfathers dairy farm and tinkering with cars. Above all, he loved being a Papaw and cherished his family more than anything.

John is survived by his daughter, Renita Guzman; grandchildren, Derrius Watson, Araylee Watson, Pablo Guzman, Lilly Guzman, and Kejohn Harris;  siblings, Harry (Molly) Gayle, Veronica Gayle, Connie Gayle, Emma (Mike) Ceners, George Gayle, Walter (Christy) Gayle, Archie (Melanie) Gayle, David (Kamila) Gayle; as well as his life long companion, Betty Watson.

John is preceded in death by his parents George West and Berta Garnett Gayle, and his brother Henry Gayle.