Maybe you saw the bright lights or heard the thunderous echo on July 7, 2026 as a true firecracker, Gayle Maxey Wilson, walked through the pearly gates and into the arms of our Savior. Just in case you missed it, I can assure you it was a grand celebration.
Gayle was born in Nashville, TN, on July 6th, 1947, and grew up down the road in Madison, TN. She graduated from Isaac Litton High School in 1965, then earned a Bachelor’s degree from Middle Tennessee State University in 1969.
She was married in 1968 and became a mother in 1971. When her children were in elementary school, she was an active member of the PTA. She was also part of a tennis team and a bowling league.
Gayle was a daughter, a sister, a mom, a nana, and a friend. Of all of these, “Nana,” was her favorite title, and she wore it well. She had a special bond with each of her grandchildren & went out of her way to make sure they all knew they were loved. She made every one of them feel important, and it was a true joy to watch her interact with each of them. The number of people who referred to her as Nana, even if no relation, would be hard to calculate. It’s what everyone called her…except Ryder. He always called her “Nanner”, which always made her smile.
Although we are saddened by this loss, we are aware of her gain. We are comforted knowing she is completely free and in no pain…knowing she can walk without a cane…knowing she’s dancing with Jesus and reunited with Ambria, Emerson, her parents, and her sister.
Gayle was preceded into Eternity by her parents, Edward C. Maxey & Nancy Riley Maxey; her sister, Bobbye Ann Maxey; and her granddaughters, Emerson Riley Bradley & Ambria Dianne McGregor.
She is survived by her children: Brian (Amy) Law; Brandi (Jay) Bradley; Brittney (Ryder) McGregor; her nephew, Kristoffer (Angela) Oxford, and grandchildren: Cade, Crews, & Creed Law; Cole, Will, Jacob, & Tyler Bradley; Dylon McGregor, Blake Rodgers, and Kannon Oxford.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Gayle’s honor on Thursday, July 30th, from 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at Misty Blue Event Venue, 6978 Lebanon Road, Mt. Juliet, TN. She once said we better have a party when she passes because she knew she would be having a party herself. We hope you will join us for this party as we celebrate Gayle…sharing stories, enjoying some of her favorite snacks, and listening to some of her favorite songs. You do not need to dress formally for this event; however, reds and purples are encouraged, for those were her favorite colors.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ambria’s Oasis in honor of Gayle’s life. This is a nonprofit started in honor of Gayle’s granddaughter, Ambria, and it was very near and dear to her heart. Donations can be made by visiting www.ambriasoasis.org.
Please continue to lift our family up in prayer as we navigate this season of grief, finding comfort in the love and support of family and friends, and clinging to the hope of God’s promises. Thank you.
For more obituaries visit our obituaries page.
This obituary was published by Sellars Funeral Home at Mt. Juliet.
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