Elsie L. Gainey, age 81 and a devoted servant of God, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, October 2, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. Elsie was a devoted member and volunteer at First Baptist Church of Chipley, where she served in numerous capacities. Her gentle spirit and nurturing heart touched generations of people, many of whom remember her lessons not just in scripture, but in kindness and grace. Elsie’s faith was not just something she practiced; it was the very foundation of who she was. Whether through her kind words, her generous spirit, or her quiet strength during life’s trials, she reflected the love of God in all she did. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Elsie was a beacon of kindness whose life was marked by service to others. A proud member of the local Women’s Club for over 20 years, she found joy in organizing events that uplifted and united her community. Her tireless work at the local food pantry ensured that countless families were nourished not just with meals, but with dignity and care. She also gave her time to numerous other charities and organizations throughout her community.
She retired from Gulf Power after working there for 33 years.
Elsie was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Gainey, her parents Lillie Pearl Moates and Ernest Taylor, and brother Robert Earl Taylor. She is survived by her two children: daughter Mellody Gainey Hughes and husband Joel Hughes, and her son Chad Gainey and wife Gina Enfinger Gainey; and two sisters: Janie Patillo and Virginia Calhoun, both of South Florida. She was blessed with four grandchildren: Jessica Gainey, Brittany Gainey Story and husband Bryan Story, Casey Gainey Whitman and husband Drake Whitman, and Jesse Gainey and wife Sydney Sabash Gainey. She was also the proud great grandmother to eight great-grandchildren: Tanner Story, Grayson Martin, Ashton Martin, Elizabeth Story, Jenova Whitman, Jacob Gainey, Wyatt Gainey, and Emma Whitman.
The family will have a visitation at Obert Funeral Home in Chipley, FL on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. Funeral service will be held Monday, October 6, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Obert Funeral Home with interment following at Glenwood Cemetery in Chipley with Bro. Bobby Pletcher presiding.
Flowers are accepted, or donations can be made to Samaritan’s Purse or Gideons International in honor of Elsie Gainey.
