B. Fay Gilchrist

B. Fay Gilchrist, a cherished matriarch, devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and faithful servant of the Lord, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026, in Lemon Grove, California. Born as Beulah Fay Weetman on August 30, 1928, in Falls Church, Virginia, Fay’s life was a testament to enduring love, faith, and unshakable kindness.

Fay came to San Diego at the tender age of nine where she was lovingly raised by her sister, Esther Taylor. She attended elementary, junior high, and high school in San Diego and graduated from Hoover High School in 1946, where she earned the admiration of many as a very popular song leader. This early passion for music found expression later in life as she joyfully participated in the Harmonettes singing group, a pursuit that brought her immense happiness.

Shortly after graduating high school, Fay embarked on her professional journey as a telephone operator. She then lovingly devoted herself to raising her three children before resuming her career as a bookkeeper at her husband’s insurance brokerage firm, where she dedicated 25 years of diligent service. Her daughter also continued the family legacy, working alongside her parents and learning from their steady example.

Fay’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. With a strong relationship with Jesus Christ, she was an unwavering member of Shadow Mountain Community Church, sharing this spiritual journey with her daughter. Her devotion and spiritual strength resonated deeply within her family and all who knew her.

A genuinely warm and gracious soul, Fay was the essence of kindness and love. She was the consummate homemaker, beloved for her cooking and baking—known especially for her apple pies, made with special care for her son-in-law, and her famous oatmeal raisin spice cookies. Her home was always a beacon of hospitality, where family and friends gathered to revel in joyous feasts she arranged with heartfelt devotion.

Beyond her culinary talents, Fay was a gifted seamstress, crafting clothing not only for her children but previously for her sister Olive. She spent much time knitting and crocheting potholders for those she loved, sharing her creativity and love through every stitch.

One of Fay’s most profound acts of love and resilience was her role as caregiver to her daughter, Linda, during two battles with cancer in the same year, demonstrating a strength and tenderness that inspired all. At 83 years old, her unwavering presence became a source of comfort and hope.

Fay leaves behind a legacy of love through her living family: her daughter Linda M. McGuffin, and her treasured grandchildren Jacob Gilchrist, Timothy Gilchrist, and Billy James Gilchrist. Though she has been preceded in death by her cherished husband William H. Gilchrist; sons William B. Gilchrist and Robert H. Gilchrist; son-in-law Richard Lee McGuffin—whom she lovingly regarded as a third son—and twelve siblings, including her beloved sister Esther F. Taylor, sister Olive Sarah Sams, and brother James Adrian Weetman, her spirit endures.

Fay’s warm smile, tender heart, and the melodies of her song leading will forever echo in the hearts of those blessed to have known her. Her life was a beautiful harmony of faith, family, and love.

In remembering B. Fay Gilchrist, we celebrate a woman whose light shone brightly and whose love enveloped all who came into her life. Her memory will forever be a treasured melody in the hearts of those she touched. Rest in peace, dear Fay, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend—the best mom in the world.

On behalf of our family, please make a donation to:

Turning Point Ministries at www.davidjeremiah.org.