SIKESTON — Agatha Clara "Gay" Goehri French — a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend — departed this life Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loving family. Gay is survived by her devoted husband, Fred S. French, with whom she shared a beautiful journey of love and partnership for 53 years, having married on March 17, 1973, in Sikeston. Together with Fred, Gay raised a loving family, leaving behind two cherished children and their spouses, Christian "Chris" and Stephanie French of Bertrand and Carolyn "Beth" and Denney Neace of Alexandria, Virginia. Her legacy of love and music continues with her three adored grandchildren, Uriah French of Bertrand and Patrick and Margaret Neace of Alexandria. Her contributions extended beyond the classroom, as she actively participated in music organizations such as the National Federation of Music Clubs, Allegro Music Club, Southeast Missouri Music Educator's Association and Missouri Music Educators Association.