MANCHESTER - Betty Anne (Harding) Gay, lifelong resident of Manchester, went to see our Lord and Savior on July 14, 2010, with her family and loved ones by her side, at MaineGeneral Medical Center in Augusta. Her life began in Augusta, where she was born on the 28th of October in 1942, the daughter of Robert and Viola (Adams) Harding. She attended grammar school in Manchester and later graduated from Cony High School in 1960. She married Robert L. Gay Sr. on July 29, 1961; they would have celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary this year. Betty worked for Hazzard Shoe, and later on for Hannaford Brothers, retiring June 16 of this year. A special thanks is given to her second family at Hannaford for their support during this difficult time. Betty loved horses, and especially her horses Rebel, Chipper and Brookline. Despite her love for her animals, it did not surpass the love she had for her family. She was very family oriented, preparing dinners and making sure everyone was taken care of. She was also a mentor, teaching those around her how to ride horses, fish and cook, among many other things. Other hobbies included braiding rugs and feeding her wild birds. She was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Viola Harding. Betty leaves behind her husband of 49 years, Robert L. Gay Sr.; her son, Robert L. Gay Jr. and his wife, Therese; her brother, Charles Harding; her aunts, Edith Sawyer, Mildred Adams and Esther Harding; an uncle, Francis Harding; her grandchildren, Kyle and his girlfriend, Rose, Kevin, Kimberly, Justin and Kevin; great-grandchildren Breanna, Olivia, Bella and Madeline; as well as many, many cousins and friends. Visitation will be held from 9 to 9:45 a.m. Monday, July 19, at Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church St., Augusta, for family and friends. A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at Harding Cemetery on the family farm, which is located on Benson Road in Manchester. Condolences may be left for the family at www.khrfuneralhomes.com.