Jerry Gay                          October 30, 1946 – October 14, 2026

With sorrow, we are sharing the peaceful passing of Jerry Gay on October 14.  As an EHS classmate, he was the photographer on the annual staff.  He was busy photographing everything, from assemblies to dances to football games.  He never lost the enthusiasm for taking pictures that started when he was given a Brownie camera at age 11. 

After graduation, he studied at Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, CA.  Upon returning home, he was first hired as a news photographer by the Everett Herald, and then by The Seattle Times. 

While at the Times, he won the Pulitzer Prize for spot news photography in 1975.  He also worked in later years for both the L.A. Times and Newsday.  He served a term as President of the National Press Photographers Association, taught occasional classes at his alma mater Brooks Institute, and did freelance work. 

Jerry and I were married in 1965, and though the marriage ended, we remained friends throughout his life.  Jerry's passing was preceded by the passing of his parents, his brother John, and our son Matthew.  He is survived by our daughters Amy and Ellen, a son Eric from his second marriage, his grandchildren, and many friends. 

A celebration of life** is being planned for the near future [see update below**].

~ Linn Erickson Staab

The above message was shared via email by our classmate Linn Erickson Staab     — Admin note -26k18.

** UPDATE:
Celebration of Life for Jerry Gay
Sunday, November 22, 2026 from 11-2 
Edmonds Waterfront Center, 220 Railroad Ave, Edmonds

Come view many of his photographs and meet his family and friends.  
We will share memories in the 12 o'clock hour.