Gay Ellyn Klein

Gay Ellyn Klein, 76, of Sebring, Florida, formerly of Allegan, Grand Rapids, and Rockford, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025.

Born on June 19, 1949, in Allegan, Gay lived a remarkable life of service, creativity, and love. She proudly served her country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War era, and later devoted herself to healthcare and aviation as a Licensed Practical Nurse and an Air Traffic Controller. Her dedication to her work was matched only by her devotion to her family and faith in Jesus Christ.

In 2021, Gay and her beloved husband, Fred Klein, relocated to Sebring. The two shared 55 years of marriage and 56 years of unwavering love and companionship. Together, they built a beautiful life full of warmth, memories, and devotion to one another and their family.

Gay had a deep appreciation for the world around her—expressed through her soft pastels in watercolor paintings, her love of traveling and camping, and her joy in hosting friends and family. Gay and Fred loved their summers serving as camp nurse and Fred’s work remodeling cabins at Gitche Gumme Bible Camp in Eagle River, Michigan for many years She was a natural nurturer, a gracious hostess, and a light to everyone who knew her. Her faith as a Baptist guided her, and her legacy is one of strength, joy, and kindness.

She is survived by her husband, Fred Klein; her children, Frederick Carl (Becky) Klein, Sarah (Paul) Dakoske, and Andrew Aaron Klein; her brother, Curt (Linda) Clossen; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her sister, Sue Clossen.

Gay’s presence will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who were lucky enough to know her. A celebration of Gay’s life will be determined at a later date.

Arrangements entrusted to:
Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
Sebring, Florida
Online condolences may be left at
www.stephensonnelsonfh.com