James "Christopher" Gay, 39, of Yosemite National Park passed away unexpectedly October 15, 2024.  He was born on January 7, 1985 in Virginia Beach, Virginia.  Chris graduated from Hylton High School in Virginia and began a life of adventure.  He embraced opportunities and passions which included music, yoga, surfing, hockey, rock climbing.  An avid climber throughout Yosemite, Chris ultimately worked each summer as a member of the Yosemite Search and Rescue Team.

Chris is survived by his parents, Kathy and David Gay, III.; brother, David Gay, IV (wife, Emily Gay); brother, Matthew Leavy (wife, Kim Leavy); sister, Kathleen Leavy Robertson; sister, Barbara Gay Neel; brother, Dan Leavy (wife, Lisa Leavy); maternal grandmother, Grace Philipps; nephew, Kevin Leavy; niece, Madison Leavy; niece, Brooklyn Leavy; nephew, Tristen Taylor; aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends.

There will be a time of visiting a sharing to celebrate Chris' life on Saturday, November 2, 2024 beginning at 1PM at the home of Joan and David.

The family requests in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Friends of Yosemite Search and Rescue (FOYOSAR) https://www.friendsofyosar.org