Gayle Gregory Rainwater

Mrs. Gayle Gregory Rainwater, 82, of Swainsboro passed away, Thursday, June 25, 2026, at her residence. She was born on April 11, 1944, in Swainsboro to the late Wylie D. Henry and Hattie Athine Kersey Henry.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Bill Gregory and Don Rainwater; brother, Herb Henry; sister, Evelyn Tillett.

Gayle loved to laugh and entertain others. Her grandchildren have fond memories of her dancing to Chubby Checker and making up bedtime stories about catfish who lived in old boots. She was a creative at heart and enjoyed writing poems and arranging flowers. Her home was in a constant state of redecorating.

While people may remember her most from her years of managing various retail stores in Swainsboro, her passion project was the flower shop she owned with her sister, Athena's Flowers & Gifts. Although her failing health led to her retirement, she continued making arrangements in her home until she was physically unable.

She was a faithful member of Southside Baptist Church, where she enjoyed teaching Sunday School and Children's Church for many years. However, her pride and joy until the end was her family, especially her three great- grandchildren.

Gayle playfully referred to herself as a "foxy grandma," and that is how she will be remembered -- full of love and sass.

Survivors include her daughter, Melinda Averett (Dennis) of Kite; grandchildren, Amanda Garnto (Nathan) of Wrightsville, Derek Averett (Alice) of Metter; great grandchildren, Brooklyn Garnto, Brynlee Averett, Case Averett; brothers, Robert Henry (Evelyn), Alton Henry (Bonnie) both of Swainsboro; sisters, Hazel Bush of Lyons, Eloyse Farrow, Scarlett Nelson (Buddy) both of Swainsboro; stepdaughters, Kim French (Jason) of Missouri, Becky Roberts (Carl) of Florida; several nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.

Funeral service will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Southside Baptist Church with Reverend Chad Kennison and Reverend Jeff Stark officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Interment will follow in Lamb Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Casey Henry, Jimmy Peebles, Cameron Kennison, Kevin Chapman, Michael Wilcher, and Baron Powell.

Condolences may be expressed at www.chapmanfhofswainsboro.com

Chapman Funeral Home of Swainsboro is in charge of the arrangements for Mrs. Gayle Gregory Rainwater, 82, of Swainsboro.