Gay Higley, a woman defined by her tireless work ethic and her unwavering devotion to her family, passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
Born in Dallas, Texas, on September 22, 1959, Gay attended Duncanville High School. In June of 1982, while both were working at the Dallas Times Herald, she met Dave Higley. They were married on May 27, 1983, beginning a partnership that would span over four decades of life and business.
Gay and Dave worked together at the newspaper and later at Deluxe Check Printing before Gay decided to follow a new path. She pursued her calling in cosmetology and began cutting hair 27 years ago. In January 2005, she and Dave opened Hair Villa together. Gay was the hardest-working woman many ever knew; she cared deeply for her clients and took immense pride in the business they built together.
Outside of the shop, Gay found her joy in the details of her home. She was passionate about decorating, gardening, and landscaping, and she always kept a watchful eye out for the hummingbirds she so loved.
Above all else, Gay's life was centered on a fierce love for her family. She was a devoted mother to her boys, Russ and Casey, and she took immense pride in the men they became. That love only expanded as her family grew. Being a "Nana" was her ultimate calling; she adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and made it her mission to spoil them at every possible opportunity. She was the heart of her family, and her presence was a constant source of strength.
Gay is survived by her husband, Dave; her sons and daughters-in-law, Russ and Jonie McCabe, and Casey and Scarlett McCabe; her granddaughters and their fiancés, Katie McCabe and Cody Singleton, and Hannah McCabe and Garrett Tims; her grandsons, Bentley and Jett; her great-granddaughters, Ava Jo and Maddox; and her great-grandson, Paxton.
Celebration of Life
A service to celebrate Gay's life and legacy will be held on Monday, March 16th, at 11:00 am at Byrum Funeral Home.