Anne Dora Laye

Anne Henderson Laye, born April 15, 1931, in Belmont, NC, passed away peacefully of natural causes on December 28, 2025, in Gastonia, NC.

She is survived by her sister Jane Morrow (Ken), grandchildren Kevin Laye (Angela), Mandy Hill (Jason), and Taylor Laye (Katey), and great‑grandchildren Caitlin Laye and Jaxson Hill. She was preceded in death by her parents Lawson and Eva Henderson, her husband of more than 50 years Roy Laye Sr., her son Roy “Butch” Laye Jr., brother John Henderson, and sister Vallie Henderson.

Anne spent nearly her entire life in Cramerton, NC, where she married young, raised a family, and became “Mom” or “MawMaw” to generations of neighborhood kids. Her home was a gathering place, and her warmth shaped countless childhoods across several decades.

She worked more than 40 years in business office roles at Burlington Industries and CaroMont Hospital before finishing her career in the libraries of McAdenville and Lowell Elementary Schools—places where her love for children continued to shine.

In 2006, Anne enjoyed several years of beach life in Garden City, SC, before returning to Belmont in 2022. Despite health challenges, she remained joyful, social, and deeply devoted to her family and friends. She never missed a game, recital, or competition, cheering on her loved ones in all seasons.

A lifelong Christian, Anne was a proud member of Cramer Memorial United Methodist Church and City Church in Gastonia for nearly 75 years. She cherished her church family and lived her faith through kindness and hospitality.

For 94 years, Anne welcomed everyone with open arms. She truly never met a stranger.

All family and friends are warmly invited to Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home in Gastonia, NC, on Saturday, January 17, 2025, to honor and celebrate the life of Anne Laye. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by a casual service at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Dickie Spargo officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Anne’s honor to Celebrate Hope at City Church (www.citync.com).

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com