Moya Gaynor

Moya A. Gaynor,

Formerly of Newark Valley, NY

Moya “Mo” A. Gaynor, 89, of Vestal, and a longtime former resident of Newark Valley, passed away peacefully surrounded by friends and family on August 30, 2024. Moya was born on April 19, 1935, a daughter of the late George and Hazel (Codger) Graham, her warmth and infectious smile brightened the lives of all who knew her. She was a beacon of friendliness and faith, touching many hearts throughout her remarkable life.

Moya is survived by her loving children, T. John (Stacey) Murphy, Kalyn (Tony Scarcella) De Angelo, Holly (Rick) Hamm, and Tracy (Kate) Murphy, her beloved grandchildren Annabelle (Matt) Bradley, Ann-Marie De Angelo, Tierney (Ryan) Thompson, Valeria Zhukova, Marina Murphy, and Adam (Jill) Hamm, along with her great-grandchildren Harvey, Kevin, Colin, and Maddox, with an additional great-grandchild on the way. She will be greatly missed by her sister Joan Babcock and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her parents, Moya was reunited with her beloved husband Fran of 42 years, her siblings Pearl Payne, George Graham, Frances Wright, Rose Pavia, and James Graham, as well as other dearly loved friends and family.

Mo was a proud graduate of Newark Valley High School, class of 1953. Her dedication to her alma mater was evident in her active involvement with class reunions, a tradition she cherished and maintained diligently.

Her professional life was as a beloved waitress, a career that spanned an incredible 75 years. Mo’s tenure at various restaurants, most notably the Greek House in Johnson City, NY, was characterized by her genuine care for those she served. She formed enduring friendships with many of her patrons, creating an extensive network of friends who valued her presence in their lives as much as the service she provided.

Mo's ability to make friends instantly was legendary. Her strong Christian faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her through joy and sorrow. She found solace in her belief and was overjoyed at the thought of reuniting with her Franny and friends Nana (Dot) and Papa (Tom) Peterson.

An avid card player, Mo started playing hand & foot cards with a group that gathered Wednesdays at the Blue Dolphin restaurant. As her health declined, her group moved the games to her home on Mondays and Fridays, where she was the heart of the laughter and camaraderie that continued unabated. Her final day was spent in the joyous company of her card-playing friends, a fitting tribute to a life so richly lived in the company of others

Mo was known for her famous cookie party that took place in every December, where she would bake thousands of cookies in anticipation to open up her home to her friends and family for a day of enjoying everyone’s company to start the holidays with love and laughter.

Mo was also an enthusiastic member of the Red Hat Society, where she embraced the organization's spirit of fun and friendship. Her nurturing nature extended far beyond her immediate family; she became a second mother to her children's friends and their families, offering love, support, and wisdom.

Those who knew Mo will remember her as loving, friendly, and faith-filled. She was a person who not only embodied these qualities but also inspired them in others. Her legacy is one of kindness, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the people she loved.

A celebration of Mo’s life will take place at a later date to be announced. Memories and condolences can be shared in her guestbook at www.macphersonfh.com. In memory of Mo and her thoughtful nature, she hopes you pay forward a good deed and share a smile to all you meet. The family is under the caring assistance of the MacPherson Funeral Home, Newark Valley.