Gaye Merrill and Jim Beam Whiskey
This story is the first time I personally witnessed Gaye Merrill using Jim Beam Whiskey.
We invited Gaye on our family vacation to Havasupi Falls in the south rim of the Grand Canyon. This was a week long trip and she was hesitant to come because she felt like she was interrupting, but she was my sister and it just felt right to have her come along. She prepared with my family to back pack in and then hike around for the week and then back pack out. She spent a wonderful week down in the canyon sunbathing, swimming and hiking. Once day we hiked from the Main falls to Beaver falls which is about 8 miles down into the canyon to swim and take in the beauty of the desert.
On the way back Gaye was walking though the tall grass when she stubbed her toe. She didn’t say much when it happened other than she chipped her toe nail. When we got back to camp and upon further investigation she had ripped the majority of her toe nail off her great toe. Havasupi Falls is 13 miles from the trail head and 3 miles from the village which has very limited health care provisions. So after discussion she ask me to remove her toe nail. So Gay took a stick and wrapped it in cloth, placed it in her mouth and bit down, then we said a prayer together and I took her toe nail off with my Leatherman tool. The root of the nail bed was difficult to remove so I have to use the knife edge to debris tissue up under the root bed to remove the nail. Talk about spikes being driven under your nails. The great toe bled and during this whole event, Gaye did not look up, or make a sound. She held her foot still and I did not so much as whimper. When we were done the bite marks in the stick were ¼ deep and she had a slight tear in her eye. Her only comment was, that should make it in my journal. If it did not make it in her journal, it certainly did mine. She new what had to be done, she never made excesses, she just got it done. This incident could of impacted our whole family vacation, instead she just took care of business like she always has done. Selfless sacrifice for the good of us all…….
Now you are asking me about the whiskey? We had no antiseptic so we borrowed a flask of Jim Bream Whiskey from the camp next door and poured it on her big toe. We then wrapped the toe and she finished out the rest of the week without a complaint or missing a subsequent hike or swim. She staggered a little on the leg we had done the surgery on, but after the alcohol wore off she was fine. It was the only time I witness a drunk foot.
Gaye you have always been such an example. You helped me so much when I had cancer. We have truly become bother and sister. My heart aches that I cannot call you and speak to you one more time. I have called your voice mail just to hear your voice. I am grateful to have spoken to you the week before you passed. You sounded so sick but still you did not cry out for help or comfort. Just like always, you tried not to inconvenience anyone. You are truly one of the great females who has mentored and impacted my life. I will always be grateful for our friendship.
I am so grateful to my Heavenly Father for his sons sacrifice in my behalf. I know that if I can live half the life you have lived I will again be able to hug you. Save me a spot on the sideline of heaven, I can’t wait to share a cup of Power Aide with you again. I will miss so much, it will not be the same at BYU without you.
Love your brother, Laney
Friday, June 11, 2010
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
My trainer, my second mom, my friend
I, like many, was an athlete at BYU and came in intimidated by Gaye. However, Gaye and I became buddies fast. I think by the time I ended up leaving BYU 5 years later, I spent more time with Gaye and the training room then I did with my coaches and in the gym. My first year as a gymnast Gaye was my trainer. She would fix my owies, treat my aches, tape like a pro, and always made sure I was getting my rehab done.
But my second year Gaye became my second mom and it's a good thing because I really needed her and she knew that. For some reason when I came to college I started to get injured. I think it was to make up for me walking away from club injury free except for a few bruises and sprains. And I couldn't have been any luckier to have Gaye by my side. She was there for my first surgery, cortisone shots, reactions to cortisone shots, difficult decisions, being forced to retire early, tough times in school, two more surgeries, graduation, a new job, sad times, fun times, and even play time. She was my second mom; she was there every second I needed her. There were many times I would come into the training room and we would go into her office and just talk. I liked talking with her, she listened, she laughed and it was so fun to listen to her when decided she to take some of the spot light off of me. Gaye cared!
I'm Catholic and during my second year I did not have a car. It was during Ash Wednesday and I really wanted to go to church and was trying to figure out how I was going to accomplish that. Gaye pulled me aside and without hesitation offered me to barrow her car....yes, that's right, her z340. I just looked at her, speechless. I didn't even know how to answer her. But before I could say yes she pulled me back down to reality by realizing that she had to take it in to get worked on so it was the trainer truck for me. I was so close to riding that amazing car down University Parkway; I think she just might have offered that just to get my hopes up. I don't think she wanted anyone else to beat her speed ;) That was Gaye, always thinking of others first. Faith was important to her and she knew how important it was to me, it didn't matter what the beliefs were. We always had a great time talking religion and sharing ideas and beliefs.
When I graduated BYU and moved away Gaye and I still talked, still texted. I would visit in the summers and we would always do lunch and catch up. And of course like she always did, she would bring me in the training room and fix my owies or just say I was a lost cause :) She always took care of me. I have learned so much from her and to be honest, I'm still learning from her and I will always continue to learn from her. I have always looked up to Gaye, she has always been my hero. There wasn't a month that would go by that I couldn't talk to Gaye. If we couldn't talk we texted; I always had to know how she was doing and she with me. We had become great friends. Her relationship with me as a second mom had turned into an amazing friendship. I will always continue to cherish that.
What hurts the most is we won't be able to go on our vacation that we talked about and that she won't be able to attend my wedding in August which I was so looking forward to her being there. I needed her there and I knew she wanted to be there. I'm so happy that she got to meet the man of my life. Having her tell me that I met someone that was so perfect for me and so right for me, meant the world to me. And I know that when August roles around she will be there in spirit; she will be there for all the vacations in the future. She will be there and that is all I need to know. Just like any mom and just like any friend you want them there and I know she always will be.
Gaye, thank you, I miss you, and I love you. Enjoy all the diet cokes you can drink, the candy and chocolate you can eat, and the show that's going on below you. One day, many years from now I will look forward to our talks. Until then, take care, watch over us, and know you are an angel!
Love ya,
Muscles
But my second year Gaye became my second mom and it's a good thing because I really needed her and she knew that. For some reason when I came to college I started to get injured. I think it was to make up for me walking away from club injury free except for a few bruises and sprains. And I couldn't have been any luckier to have Gaye by my side. She was there for my first surgery, cortisone shots, reactions to cortisone shots, difficult decisions, being forced to retire early, tough times in school, two more surgeries, graduation, a new job, sad times, fun times, and even play time. She was my second mom; she was there every second I needed her. There were many times I would come into the training room and we would go into her office and just talk. I liked talking with her, she listened, she laughed and it was so fun to listen to her when decided she to take some of the spot light off of me. Gaye cared!
I'm Catholic and during my second year I did not have a car. It was during Ash Wednesday and I really wanted to go to church and was trying to figure out how I was going to accomplish that. Gaye pulled me aside and without hesitation offered me to barrow her car....yes, that's right, her z340. I just looked at her, speechless. I didn't even know how to answer her. But before I could say yes she pulled me back down to reality by realizing that she had to take it in to get worked on so it was the trainer truck for me. I was so close to riding that amazing car down University Parkway; I think she just might have offered that just to get my hopes up. I don't think she wanted anyone else to beat her speed ;) That was Gaye, always thinking of others first. Faith was important to her and she knew how important it was to me, it didn't matter what the beliefs were. We always had a great time talking religion and sharing ideas and beliefs.
When I graduated BYU and moved away Gaye and I still talked, still texted. I would visit in the summers and we would always do lunch and catch up. And of course like she always did, she would bring me in the training room and fix my owies or just say I was a lost cause :) She always took care of me. I have learned so much from her and to be honest, I'm still learning from her and I will always continue to learn from her. I have always looked up to Gaye, she has always been my hero. There wasn't a month that would go by that I couldn't talk to Gaye. If we couldn't talk we texted; I always had to know how she was doing and she with me. We had become great friends. Her relationship with me as a second mom had turned into an amazing friendship. I will always continue to cherish that.
What hurts the most is we won't be able to go on our vacation that we talked about and that she won't be able to attend my wedding in August which I was so looking forward to her being there. I needed her there and I knew she wanted to be there. I'm so happy that she got to meet the man of my life. Having her tell me that I met someone that was so perfect for me and so right for me, meant the world to me. And I know that when August roles around she will be there in spirit; she will be there for all the vacations in the future. She will be there and that is all I need to know. Just like any mom and just like any friend you want them there and I know she always will be.
Gaye, thank you, I miss you, and I love you. Enjoy all the diet cokes you can drink, the candy and chocolate you can eat, and the show that's going on below you. One day, many years from now I will look forward to our talks. Until then, take care, watch over us, and know you are an angel!
Love ya,
Muscles
Monday, June 7, 2010
Holland Davis
I had the privilege of training under Gaye Merrill for two years. Gaye gave me laughs when I was having a bad day, and was my mother away from home in many instances. In addition, Gaye was with me through my first, and most painful surgery-reconstruction of my ACL. She comforted me when I was in pain, motivated me when I wanted to give up, encouraged me when I was frustrated, and shared my happiness when I improved. She was there for me as I went through the demanding days of rehabilitation. She is an influential character in my gymnastics career. I admire Gaye for her progression in what she loves, her resilience when things got tough, and for seeing the bright side in things when it feels like there is nothing but darkness. She will forever be embedded into my heart, and I will never forget her. I would not be where I am without her guidance and care. And I will miss Gaye, as she touched my life in ways I’ll always remember.
Amy Schlauder
Dearest Gaye Dawg,
I miss you, but I'm so excited to see you again. Especially because the next time you see me, you wont have to worry about my crappy back, my broken finger, or those nasty blisters on the bottoms of my feet. You might not know what to do with me, healthy, and I'm sure you'll be busy doing amazing things, but I'll be so happy to steal you for a minute, just to chat. I'll give you a big hug, without thinking twice about hurting you. And I'll compliment your hair 'cause it will be just the way you like it.
When I see you again, I'm looking forward to so many things. First of all, I can hardly wait to meet your man. :) But I hope I'll have a lot to tell you too. Like stories of being a mother, learned from way you were a mother to me. By then, I want to tell you the things I learned from hard experiences in my life, and I will thank you for showing me how to deal with adversity. I want to talk about what I learned as a teacher, and how I learned from you that the best teaching comes from example. I'll laugh with you about how I felt like the school psychologist, instead of psychology teacher. And I'll hug you again for being the world's best shrink.
I hope my faith is stronger by then, and I can better explain how your faith continued to strengthen mine throughout my life. I'll laugh with you about how silly and stupid I was in college, but I'll probably cry while I thank you again for never making me feel silly or stupid
When I see you again, I want to have someone else's tears on my shirt, just like the pools you always let me leave on yours. I hope to even have a little massage lotion on my hands. [You would always give me back massages, just to make me feel better, fully knowing they wouldn't heal my back.] I hope by then, I'll have figured out how to heal souls like you did mine, and so many others. I hope by this time, you'll know how much I really do appreciate you. I'm gonna talk to you about life when I see you again. And by then, hopefully I'll get it half as good as you do.
So it looks like I have a whole lot to learn. It might be a while, but I really am looking forward to seeing you again. I love you so much, Gaye. I know I am a better person because I know you.See you soon and love you always
Amy
Catherine "Parker" Fishback
In August of 2003, I started a journey, one which proved to be a far more difficult challenge than I had imagined. It was also a journey which I consider one of my greatest life accomplishments. On my first day reporting for the BYU Women’s Volleyball team, I met Gaye. I walked into the training room of the Smith Fieldhouse, about to start my mandatory physical, when Gaye reached out her hand firmly and said, “I’m Gaye”. I shook her hand and listened to her tell me how she would be responsible for healing all of my bodily injuries during my time as an athlete at BYU. She told me that I was expected to play through normal aches and pains but if anything felt abnormally painful or just not right, that it was my job to tell her immediately. I didn’t know how helpful this advice would prove to be as a metaphor for life. I also had no idea that over the next five years, in addition to treating my many physical ailments, Gaye would synchronously heal me emotionally, mentally, and spiritually too.
Over my five-year rollercoaster of BYU Volleyball, Gaye was a constant caretaker: always putting the team’s success and the athlete's well-being first. Not many people truly understand the sacrifice, joy, pain, passion, and true satisfaction that comes with being a college athlete. Gaye does. And she understands that to succeed you need to be strong. You need to be strong physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
I feel grateful that I was one of the lucky ones to be changed by her and I feel sad for future athletes who won’t know her. She is a hero. She is an angel.
Thanks,
Catherine "Parker" Fishback
Hugh McCutcheon wrote:
Gaye truly personified the best of the human condition. As a person she was kind, considerate, funny, intelligent and loyal. As a professional she was committed to her craft, she worked incredibly hard, and her vast knowledge of the Athletic Training profession was complimented by her wonderful personality. She was loved and will be deeply missed. My heart aches with her passing.
Hugh McCutcheon
Hugh McCutcheon
Betzy wrote:
I am very saddened by Gaye's quick departure.
I guess that was part of her style to keep us on our toes.
I had the privilege to work with her side by side while I was at BYU. We worked with the same teams. We had good times and great times. There was never a bad day when Gaye was around.
She rocked my daughter EJ (she named her and was at the hospital when I delivered her), she teased my son Pitufo and made him laugh by nick naming him "Tofu" because she could not pronounce his name correctly. People would ask my daughter about her name "Ej" - I witnessed many of her explanations, she would proudly say "Gaye Merrill, the best BYU trainer, named me. She is my mom's friend", then she would proceed to tell them about Gaye Merrill: how strong she was, how she warmed up by jogging up the Y and back in 15 minutes, how she could do chin ups and dips with a 100 lb weight attached to her ankles, how she out run the runners at track and field meets to get to an injured athlete, how when she was on a date the car broke down and she was the one pushing the car all the way home, how her tape jobs were not tape jobs, they were works of art; how she knew everything about sports medicine and above all how she loved everyone. As the years passed and the story of my daughter's name got told, Gaye got stronger, faster, tougher and better. Last time I heard it she could run up the Y and back in 5 min. When my Ej was 17 she had a nearly fatal auto pedestrian accident, as she lay in her hospital bed with tubes coming out or going into her body, nurses and doctors would ask her about her name, and she again proudly and with a smile in her swollen face would tell them about Gaye Merrill.
I remember one time when it was my turn to be the "Guest's Trainer"- this meant that I had to be with the visiting team's ATs and tend to their needs; I had to stay on their side of the field, help them with their hydration, cryotherapy, etc. Among students the "Guest's Trainer" was the "Traitor Trainer", so I did not want to be it. As I went to Merrill with my whining she told me that I was an Athletic Trainer and that my concern should be for the athletes not the colors they were wearing. She went on to tell me that they were the visiting team, they were our guests, I was to be at my absolute best behavior (I still hold the record for the # of "See Me Now" notes from Dr D.) and to make them feel at home. Then, the killer line that I have remembered in everything I do: Merrill told me with that penetrating tone of voice: you represent BYU and all it stands for, you represent our program and the quality of our care, don't betray that! With that I whined no more. I picked up my kit, and went to the other side to be the best I could ever be. I remember looking back and there was Merrill…smiling.
Today I looked up and scanned the sky for that smile; I know she is there somewhere, maybe behind the clouds, maybe she is not hiding at all, and her smile is in every life she touched. How foolish can I be? I can feel her smile. She is right here in my home in my daughter's name and everything it stands for. I won't betray that!
I love you Gaye, my Ej admires you, and my "Tofu" still smiles big at the sound of your name!
Betzy
I guess that was part of her style to keep us on our toes.
I had the privilege to work with her side by side while I was at BYU. We worked with the same teams. We had good times and great times. There was never a bad day when Gaye was around.
She rocked my daughter EJ (she named her and was at the hospital when I delivered her), she teased my son Pitufo and made him laugh by nick naming him "Tofu" because she could not pronounce his name correctly. People would ask my daughter about her name "Ej" - I witnessed many of her explanations, she would proudly say "Gaye Merrill, the best BYU trainer, named me. She is my mom's friend", then she would proceed to tell them about Gaye Merrill: how strong she was, how she warmed up by jogging up the Y and back in 15 minutes, how she could do chin ups and dips with a 100 lb weight attached to her ankles, how she out run the runners at track and field meets to get to an injured athlete, how when she was on a date the car broke down and she was the one pushing the car all the way home, how her tape jobs were not tape jobs, they were works of art; how she knew everything about sports medicine and above all how she loved everyone. As the years passed and the story of my daughter's name got told, Gaye got stronger, faster, tougher and better. Last time I heard it she could run up the Y and back in 5 min. When my Ej was 17 she had a nearly fatal auto pedestrian accident, as she lay in her hospital bed with tubes coming out or going into her body, nurses and doctors would ask her about her name, and she again proudly and with a smile in her swollen face would tell them about Gaye Merrill.
I remember one time when it was my turn to be the "Guest's Trainer"- this meant that I had to be with the visiting team's ATs and tend to their needs; I had to stay on their side of the field, help them with their hydration, cryotherapy, etc. Among students the "Guest's Trainer" was the "Traitor Trainer", so I did not want to be it. As I went to Merrill with my whining she told me that I was an Athletic Trainer and that my concern should be for the athletes not the colors they were wearing. She went on to tell me that they were the visiting team, they were our guests, I was to be at my absolute best behavior (I still hold the record for the # of "See Me Now" notes from Dr D.) and to make them feel at home. Then, the killer line that I have remembered in everything I do: Merrill told me with that penetrating tone of voice: you represent BYU and all it stands for, you represent our program and the quality of our care, don't betray that! With that I whined no more. I picked up my kit, and went to the other side to be the best I could ever be. I remember looking back and there was Merrill…smiling.
Today I looked up and scanned the sky for that smile; I know she is there somewhere, maybe behind the clouds, maybe she is not hiding at all, and her smile is in every life she touched. How foolish can I be? I can feel her smile. She is right here in my home in my daughter's name and everything it stands for. I won't betray that!
I love you Gaye, my Ej admires you, and my "Tofu" still smiles big at the sound of your name!
Betzy
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
I got to room with Gaye when she was the swimming and diving trainer. She never complained about the demand of the job. I'm sure she gave over 100 rubdowns through the course of the conference meets. She would collapse on her bed with the t.v. on, only to be interrupted by an athlete needing medical assistance. On our visit the Wed. before she passed away, I said, "I had a swimmer ask me how many swim meets I have been to in my life and of course I didn't know." I then asked, "Gaye, how many trips have you been on?" Shauna responded with, "It would be easier to count how many days she has been home." Gaye you have left a huge hole to fill, but we know you are home. I thank you for your stalwart example, I will miss taking recruits into the training room and saying, "There is Gaye Merrill the best trainer in the U.S., she has toured with the U.S. National Swim and Dive team." All my love to you and your family,
Shari Skabelund
Shari Skabelund
I just wanted to express my condolences to Gaye's family. She was an amazing lady with such a beautiful smile and laugh. I remember her taking care of me starting as a freshman swimmer at BYU. She didn't just take care of me, she took care of us all. I remember all of the ice bags she got for us and the warts she scraped and the laughs we had at BYU and on the road. Gaye cared about people and she didn't care if you were an All American or a walk-on, she treated everyone the same. To her, you were a person who needed help and was so willing to do what was needed to help you be your very best. That's why everyone loved her. Gaye is part of my BYU experience that I don't ever want to forget.
K.C. Cline Lemon (1987-1991)
K.C. Cline Lemon (1987-1991)
McKell Merkley
When I first came to BYU I was a confused little freshman that was terrified of Gaye. She held all the power and if she said someone wasn't allowed to work out there was no fighting her about it. For some of the upper-classmen who's bodies were pretty broken it seemed like she controlled their entire careers and was the one who could tell them it was over- can you say scary?!
Looking back that is one of the funniest misconceptions I have ever had! Holy-Moly no one put in more time than Gaye-Bert did. She'd be with us 45 minutes before practice for treatment, sit through our long practices (boring!), and stay for sometimes hours after our practice doing treatment, paper work, or taking us to the doctors. She always did whatever she could to make sure each athlete's career the best it could be- she was our real life guardian angel!
I don't even know where to start when thinking about all the memories Gaye left with us. I narrowed it down to my "Five Favorite Things of Gaye" from the past four years...
1. She put up with a lot of rehab-ridiculousness that I'm not sure anyone else would have. When me and Nat were sick of rehab in the summer, she let us turn it into a relay and her and Pete would listen to our "We've got the blues" songs. She let us wear goggles to the underwater treadmill and reacted surprisingly well when I held a funeral for the knee brace I was suppose to be wearing. She always took the time to switch our rehab sheet every few weeks to keep it challenging and even let us skip bungy-cord runs when she was feeling extra merciful.
2. She put up with a lot of general-ridiculousness that I'm not sure anyone else would have. She let me and Dee hold tryout's for her van (aka Gaye's Cougar Cab) and would never get us lost even when the GPS had no idea what state we were in. When I secretly signed her up for facebook after she told me not to she only made me sit in the cold pool instead of murdering me like she had previously threatened. When we would go visit her at home she would never tell us to go away even though she sees us all the time, but instead would invite us in, offering M&M's or other little treats she knew we couldn't turn down.
3. So supportive of everyone and everything. No one wants to go to Missouri, Penn state, or New Hampshire in the middle of winter but she came with us every time. She let us have a party in her office when we passed our physicals and let me cry in there every time I failed the cybex machine. She always asked about school and family and was always up-to-date on everyone's lives. She bought the Seniors the most beautiful flowers for our last home meet and would go to Zupa's with us if we ever had anything to celebrate.
4. Gaye = FUNNY. She would fool you by being all professional at first, but the more you got to know her the funnier you'd realize she was. She named the big white bag "Shamu" and would joke with us about all the drivers when we were traveling. From her recent Pep Rally performance with the student trainers to the time she embarrassed Sarah Maxfield with pasties and a water bra, Gaye always had something up her sleeve.
5. She's Just All Around Awesome. Gaye was always such a rock for our team. Not only was she the best trainer we ever could have asked for, she was a great mentor and friend to everyone she came in contact with. She was such a great example for us and an amazing model for us to follow in her footsteps. Gaye was never too busy for us and was always available just to talk. She was a great mother figure for all and she'll be so missed.
Love you Gaye, I know you are already busy doing great things up there in Heaven!
Looking back that is one of the funniest misconceptions I have ever had! Holy-Moly no one put in more time than Gaye-Bert did. She'd be with us 45 minutes before practice for treatment, sit through our long practices (boring!), and stay for sometimes hours after our practice doing treatment, paper work, or taking us to the doctors. She always did whatever she could to make sure each athlete's career the best it could be- she was our real life guardian angel!
I don't even know where to start when thinking about all the memories Gaye left with us. I narrowed it down to my "Five Favorite Things of Gaye" from the past four years...
1. She put up with a lot of rehab-ridiculousness that I'm not sure anyone else would have. When me and Nat were sick of rehab in the summer, she let us turn it into a relay and her and Pete would listen to our "We've got the blues" songs. She let us wear goggles to the underwater treadmill and reacted surprisingly well when I held a funeral for the knee brace I was suppose to be wearing. She always took the time to switch our rehab sheet every few weeks to keep it challenging and even let us skip bungy-cord runs when she was feeling extra merciful.
2. She put up with a lot of general-ridiculousness that I'm not sure anyone else would have. She let me and Dee hold tryout's for her van (aka Gaye's Cougar Cab) and would never get us lost even when the GPS had no idea what state we were in. When I secretly signed her up for facebook after she told me not to she only made me sit in the cold pool instead of murdering me like she had previously threatened. When we would go visit her at home she would never tell us to go away even though she sees us all the time, but instead would invite us in, offering M&M's or other little treats she knew we couldn't turn down.
3. So supportive of everyone and everything. No one wants to go to Missouri, Penn state, or New Hampshire in the middle of winter but she came with us every time. She let us have a party in her office when we passed our physicals and let me cry in there every time I failed the cybex machine. She always asked about school and family and was always up-to-date on everyone's lives. She bought the Seniors the most beautiful flowers for our last home meet and would go to Zupa's with us if we ever had anything to celebrate.
4. Gaye = FUNNY. She would fool you by being all professional at first, but the more you got to know her the funnier you'd realize she was. She named the big white bag "Shamu" and would joke with us about all the drivers when we were traveling. From her recent Pep Rally performance with the student trainers to the time she embarrassed Sarah Maxfield with pasties and a water bra, Gaye always had something up her sleeve.
5. She's Just All Around Awesome. Gaye was always such a rock for our team. Not only was she the best trainer we ever could have asked for, she was a great mentor and friend to everyone she came in contact with. She was such a great example for us and an amazing model for us to follow in her footsteps. Gaye was never too busy for us and was always available just to talk. She was a great mother figure for all and she'll be so missed.
Love you Gaye, I know you are already busy doing great things up there in Heaven!
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Shay Goulding
Few people have touched as many lives as Gaye has. Her smile and laugh will be missed on our trips in the future. I could always count on Gaye to run in the mornings with me. She was hardcore and would still go when I thought it was too cold. One of my favorite memories is when the two of us ran together in Argentina. I think it was the biggest glimpse I got into who Gaye is. She told me about her battles with breast cancer, about her wonderful family, her career path and how much she loves her job.
Anyone that watched her in action knew she loved her job and loved our girls. Gaye truly was devoted to our athletes and our athletes were devoted to her. When I first got here, I couldn't believe just how much the girls loved and literally venerated her. It didn't take long to realize Gaye deserved all the love and praise that she received. She really was someone special. We'll miss you Gaye. No doubt you have made it back to our Savior.
Thanks for your example.
Shay Goulding
Anyone that watched her in action knew she loved her job and loved our girls. Gaye truly was devoted to our athletes and our athletes were devoted to her. When I first got here, I couldn't believe just how much the girls loved and literally venerated her. It didn't take long to realize Gaye deserved all the love and praise that she received. She really was someone special. We'll miss you Gaye. No doubt you have made it back to our Savior.
Thanks for your example.
Shay Goulding
The Taguchi Family
Over the past six years, from the time our son was 8 years old and began attending BYU volleyball camps, Gaye Merrill has been so kind and generous to our son and our family.We attended many away games in Wyoming and Colorado when we live in Fort Collins. Gaye always acknowledged our presence.
When our son, Tanner, got six-packed at a game during warm-ups, Gaye came over and gave him an ice pack. When we brought a snack basket for the team during a camp, Gaye made a personalized BYU water bottle for Tanner. We still have it.
Our family has followed BYU volleyball, both teams, very closely over the past number of years, and Gaye has always noticed us wherever we show up. She was a kind and loving woman who was so good at her job. Her concern for the players was obvious.
We will miss her when we attend games in the future. Our best wishes go out to her family and loved ones--including the students and coaches with whom she worked.
Sincerely,
Rae Anne, Tomoo, and Tanner Taguchi
When our son, Tanner, got six-packed at a game during warm-ups, Gaye came over and gave him an ice pack. When we brought a snack basket for the team during a camp, Gaye made a personalized BYU water bottle for Tanner. We still have it.
Our family has followed BYU volleyball, both teams, very closely over the past number of years, and Gaye has always noticed us wherever we show up. She was a kind and loving woman who was so good at her job. Her concern for the players was obvious.
We will miss her when we attend games in the future. Our best wishes go out to her family and loved ones--including the students and coaches with whom she worked.
Sincerely,
Rae Anne, Tomoo, and Tanner Taguchi
Friday, May 28, 2010
Terri Riding
When I taught at Tooele High School, I called Gaye to ask if I could bring my students in to do the modalities lab since all we had was a hydrocolator. She had set up this whole thing (with US, diathermy, massage, stim, etc) and then gave all my students T-shirts afterward. She didn't need to, but she did anyway.
Thanks Gaye
Thanks Gaye
Stan Crump
My heartfelt sympathies go out to Gaye’s family and friends. I met Gaye while in grad school at BYU and have known and worked with her ever since. For many years, Gaye was the trainer that was assigned to swimming and diving. She traveled with our team many times. She was also, for several years, one of United States Swimming’s trainers and traveled with various U.S. Swimming teams as they competed in different parts of the world. I have fond memories of our team trips together.
Completely professional in every way, Gaye taught us new ways of doing things all the time. She was also a stalwart friend to the swimmers and divers.
I will miss her, but know we will see each other again.
Stan Crump
Completely professional in every way, Gaye taught us new ways of doing things all the time. She was also a stalwart friend to the swimmers and divers.
I will miss her, but know we will see each other again.
Stan Crump
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Gaye Shmay
There aren't enough words to express how grateful and blessed I am to have had Gaye apart of my life. I never would have made it through BYU without her. Being on the gymnastics team, I was lucky enough to have spent almost everyday with her for 4 years. She was with me every step of the way through my injuries, especially my back. She took me to doctors appointments and would hold my hand when I needed it. She did everything she could to get me the help that I needed so that I could not only workout and compete, but even just to walk. There were times where Gaye wasn't very happy with me.....mostly because I was working out when she told me I couldn't or not stopping when she told me to. I would get the look from her (a lot of you know what that look was), and I knew I was in trouble. Ha ha. I knew it was just because she cared so much. She had this silly side to her that I loved to see come out, especially when we would travel. We loved riding in Gaye's car because she usually got everywhere first, and without getting lost. I have so many memories of her that it would take pages and pages to name all of them. I have been fortunate to be able to see Gaye over the last several years when I come back for gymnastics meets, and especially a couple months ago. I will miss seeing her face when I come back to visit. The training room will never be the same. Thank you Gaye for everything you have done for me. I love you and I will miss you so much!!
Maria Drummond
When I started visit teaching Gaye, I was about 2 years into my marriage, young, and clueless. During the subsequent 3 years that I got to visit with her for 45 minutes or so each month, I grew up, partly just because time does that, but also partly because of her influence in my life.
I remember visiting and thinking, "What on earth am I supposed to share with someone who gets life so much better than I do?", so we mostly shared testimonies with each other. Coming to her home was like going home to my parents' place. It was a welcoming, warm environment where the Spirit seemed to have set up base camp. I always left feeling inspired and excited to be alive, even (or maybe especially) on days that I had come into the visit feeling tired, burned out, or self pitying.
One of the greatest things Gaye blessed me with during those visits was a "You can do ANYTHING" philosophy. I had given up on running after having my first child because of some knee problems I ran into (besides the lack of sleep and trouble of what to do with the baby while I ran.) Gaye never told me what I should do, or pushed me any direction or the other, but little by little, as I saw her face major health problems with courage and grit, I began to wonder if maybe I'd given up my dreams too cheaply.
I eventually asked her for a recommendation to a good sports medicine doctor, which she happily and enthusiastically gave me. Now, a year later, I'm 15 weeks pregnant with my second child, and signed up to run in the Freedom Run 10K this July 5th. I feel strong, and empowered to be able to work through any barrier that should come up with proper cross training and precautions.
Gaye helped to inspire me to reach for a part of myself that was missing-the part that believes I can do anything I put my mind to. Running has been a boon to me as I greet the every day challenges of parenting a toddler and making ends meet as a poor student family. It is because of Gaye's influence that I decided to fight for it, and do what I need to do in order to help support my body to be able to perform as I would like it to. I'll be running this race in her honor, and will have her in my heart as I continue to work towards future dreams and aspirations that I would have otherwise told myself were simply out of reach.
Thanks, Gaye, for showing me how to fight with faith and determination, and how to love and serve with genuine caring and concern. I hope I'll be able to live up to the example you set in both those areas.
Love,
Maria Drummond
Nunia Sokia
"A MOTHER AWAY FROM HOME" is how I describe Gaye who was there for my daughter Alethea Boon, through all her operations and injuries when I was worrying back here in Auckland, NZ...I felt at ease knowing Gaye was there...she is a GEM who showed UNCONDITIONAL LOVE and GENUINE CARE...will treasure the book she gave me and have often refer to those precious words written by her ...thank you Gaye for being YOU until we Meet Again dear Sister!
Nunia Sokia (Auckland,NZ)
Nunia Sokia (Auckland,NZ)
Shauna Mertz
What a dear Friend we (I) have lost. I cannot even fathom going into the gym for practice and not seeing Gaye in there, or going on a trip and not having my travel buddy there. I will miss her smile and her laugh. We shared so many things over the 20 years I have known her. She was always so concerned about me and my family. She would do anything for us. Taking frantic calls from me about broken arms, illnesses, knocks to the head or anything else that I needed Gaye's expert opinion on.
She was the "master taper". I remember as an athlete just waiting for Gaye to tape me. It was always perfect! She was so knowledgeable and seemed to always be right. We knew that whatever Gaye said was the way it was. As a coach we relied on her expertise and trusted in her ability. She worked endless hours making sure our athletes were ready to go and getting them "better."
She was so much fun to travel with. Her sense of direction was incredible. She was often the one who kept us from getting lost. Her sense of direction came in handy on many occassions- especially on on particular trip to New Hampshire. We came out of the meet to a white out. The roads were so covered and you could barely see in front of the car. Luckily because of her we made it back safely to the Hotel!!
She was also the one who knew where we should eat - no matter what city we were in. She started us on Jason's Deli and others before they were very well known.I also feel very fortunate to have had her "escape" with my family on a week long cruise. It took her a few days to stop worrying about work and everything she should be doing and just relax. No cell phones and no computers - I thought she wasn't going to be able to handle it. But handle it she did. We had such a fun time with her. I got to see a different side of Gaye - Imagine - jumping of a cliff into the river!!
These last few months helping Gaye have been an incredible experience and I wouldn't trade it for anything. (except having her back!) Gaye fought hard and wanted to still be here, but I am so glad she is with her mother. She missed her terribly.Gaye was such an example to me. I never want to forget the way she lived her life and her beliefs and try to emulate her in some small way.
Miss you my dear friend.
Shauna Mertz
She was the "master taper". I remember as an athlete just waiting for Gaye to tape me. It was always perfect! She was so knowledgeable and seemed to always be right. We knew that whatever Gaye said was the way it was. As a coach we relied on her expertise and trusted in her ability. She worked endless hours making sure our athletes were ready to go and getting them "better."
She was so much fun to travel with. Her sense of direction was incredible. She was often the one who kept us from getting lost. Her sense of direction came in handy on many occassions- especially on on particular trip to New Hampshire. We came out of the meet to a white out. The roads were so covered and you could barely see in front of the car. Luckily because of her we made it back safely to the Hotel!!
She was also the one who knew where we should eat - no matter what city we were in. She started us on Jason's Deli and others before they were very well known.I also feel very fortunate to have had her "escape" with my family on a week long cruise. It took her a few days to stop worrying about work and everything she should be doing and just relax. No cell phones and no computers - I thought she wasn't going to be able to handle it. But handle it she did. We had such a fun time with her. I got to see a different side of Gaye - Imagine - jumping of a cliff into the river!!
These last few months helping Gaye have been an incredible experience and I wouldn't trade it for anything. (except having her back!) Gaye fought hard and wanted to still be here, but I am so glad she is with her mother. She missed her terribly.Gaye was such an example to me. I never want to forget the way she lived her life and her beliefs and try to emulate her in some small way.
Miss you my dear friend.
Shauna Mertz
Recent posts
To those that submitted comments on the first entry that I made, I took those comments and put them as in your own individual posts. I wanted to be sure that people had access to all these great things that are being said about Gaye. If you didn't look at the first post, you'd have missed some gems about this great lady that we all love so much. I will continue to post things as they are emailed to me. I will also be taking the comments that are made after someone posts and posting them as their own individual post. I want Gaye's family to make sure they have access to everything that people are saying. It is awesome...just like Gaye!
Deeter Prater
I will always have fond memories of Gaye. I have worked in collegiate athletics for the past five years - Gaye and BYU gave me my first opportunity. The opportunity that was awarded to me through Gaye has propelled my personal career to places I could only dream of.
I will forever be grateful. The last time I saw Gaye was in San Antonio at the NATA Convention. I was on the river walk and Gaye came wissing by on her morning jog. I remember looking at her and my heart was happy for her. She was vibrant and in her own world listining to her i-pod while enjoying her workout. She always had a smile on her face and always cared more about what was going on in people's lives. She always asked me how my family was doing and generally cared about me - the person.
Business was always apart of our relationship but wasn't what mattered most to her. Gaye cared a great deal about BYU and especially all of the athletes she deliverd care to. Gaye ran a tight ship and always put care above all else. I will miss her greatly. My life has been so enriched by her presence. I'm so fortunate to have known such a courageous woman.
LoRene Hernandez
Gaye has been my neighbor and friend for the past 15 years. My daughters thought she was so cool because she drove the fanciest car on the street. She was very dedicated to anything she was ask to do, whether it was teaching a Relief Society lesson, visiting teaching, or working at BYU.
I visit taught Gaye when I first moved to the neighborhood. She was a hard person to visit, as she was never home. She worked long hours at BYU and never complained. Later she became my visiting teacher, and never missed visiting me, and she never forgot my Birthday. The world would be a better place if we could all be like Gaye Merrill!
I will miss her, but am comforted to know she is with her sweet mother.
Anonymous
Gaye will be greatly missed here at BYU. She was always cheerful and very helpful to all the athletes that depended on her for their treatments. She always had a smile on her face and always talked to everyone she meet and made them all feel very important.
Anonymous
I will miss Gaye. When I would visit Provo she was the one in the training room to visit. She taught my 1st AT class. She was the 1st one to teach me how to tape, evaluate, etc. She was also a person not afraid to say "I don't know" but by the next class she would research and have an answer. She was a great example. She set me on my career path. I'm sure there are many people with the same story. We have lost a great mentor, teacher, trainer, athlete, and person. may the heavens recieve you with open arms. krichesbyu89
Nikki Perkins Adams
I still remember my first encounter with Gaye... I was at gymnastics practice while applying to the program and I was intimidated by her. After about two minutes of talking with her, I felt like she cared about me.
Throughout my two and a half years in the program, every time I saw her, whether it was in the training room, while she was running near BYU or on the track (which I somehow saw her doing that almost every day), or at the grocery store, she would give me the most genuine, loving smile I have ever seen and say, "Hi Nikki." If she had time, she would ask how I was doing, and if not, the smile was the same.
I never had the chance to work under her as a student, but I have never felt so cared for by someone I spent so little time with. She truly loved and cared for everyone, including me... a student she hardly knew.
Throughout my two and a half years in the program, every time I saw her, whether it was in the training room, while she was running near BYU or on the track (which I somehow saw her doing that almost every day), or at the grocery store, she would give me the most genuine, loving smile I have ever seen and say, "Hi Nikki." If she had time, she would ask how I was doing, and if not, the smile was the same.
I never had the chance to work under her as a student, but I have never felt so cared for by someone I spent so little time with. She truly loved and cared for everyone, including me... a student she hardly knew.
Lynda Benson Sparrow
I hadn't seen Gaye for years, but she was one whom if I'd had the privilege of seeing again it would have been as if we had seen each other just the other day....as if no time had elapsed. I remember her best when we were little girls in Moreland, Idaho. Our families were best friends. I don't ever remember a time that I didn't know Gaye nor her family.
I called her mom and dad, "uncle and aunt" when I was little even if we weren't related. They were and are that kind of people. Oh, how she will be missed, but oh, the reunion that she and her mother are having. Heavenly Father truly can say to Gaye, "Welcome home. Enter into the joy of my Lord".
Dan Graham
Gaye was the first staff trainer I had the privilege of working with at BYU. One thing that struck me from day 1 was how she carried herself. Very dignified and professional and always willing to help or lend a hand or a listening ear. Gaye had a wealth of knowledge, not just in athletic training but in life and how to treat people.
I recall during 2-a-days one summer about midway through we'd got a little lax in our attire, shirts not tucked or hats of other schools being worn (backwards to boot). Gaye firmly reminded us of who we were and what we stood for and that was the end of that problem. She earned the love and respect of all those that worked alongside her.
As the years have passed and I have been away from Provo I reflect often on what I learned from Gaye and I know that I am fortunate to have associated with her as a professional as well as a friend. As Kevin mentioned earlier...I'm sure Gaye and Ollie had a nice reunion on the other side of the vail. Thank you Gaye for being you, we are all better people for having had you in our lives.
I recall during 2-a-days one summer about midway through we'd got a little lax in our attire, shirts not tucked or hats of other schools being worn (backwards to boot). Gaye firmly reminded us of who we were and what we stood for and that was the end of that problem. She earned the love and respect of all those that worked alongside her.
As the years have passed and I have been away from Provo I reflect often on what I learned from Gaye and I know that I am fortunate to have associated with her as a professional as well as a friend. As Kevin mentioned earlier...I'm sure Gaye and Ollie had a nice reunion on the other side of the vail. Thank you Gaye for being you, we are all better people for having had you in our lives.
Jessica Fifita Murdoch
When I first arrived to the ATE. Program, I remember asking Gaye if she thinks it'd be a bad idea to have children, while trying to be an Athletic Trainer. She responded with, "If you think you can do it, more power to you." I will always treasure that, and know that her "superman" attitude towards things, will always stick with me.
Gaye was truly someone who if she thought she could do it, she did it. I don't know too many older women who loved life and lived it to its fullest like Gaye did. She was truly a hero to me, and I want to be like her someday. Thank you Gaye Merrill for teaching me to be a better Athletic Trainer, friend, and person by simple example.
I will miss you.
--Jess
Gaye was truly someone who if she thought she could do it, she did it. I don't know too many older women who loved life and lived it to its fullest like Gaye did. She was truly a hero to me, and I want to be like her someday. Thank you Gaye Merrill for teaching me to be a better Athletic Trainer, friend, and person by simple example.
I will miss you.
--Jess
Kelli Perkins McCarthy
I know I am a better person to have worked for, with, and around my friend Gaye Merrill. She never did tell me what the "R" stood for...hmmm...one of her best kept secrets :) She helped so many people in so many ways and I was fortunate to watch and learn from her.
She allowed me to stretch my wings but was always there to nudge me the right way. i am grateful that she never made me pay for dinner when I was in town - such is her generous soul. Thank you Gaye Merrill for your love and guidance. Your hands have healed many, but you have influenced, for good, so many others.
- Kelli
She allowed me to stretch my wings but was always there to nudge me the right way. i am grateful that she never made me pay for dinner when I was in town - such is her generous soul. Thank you Gaye Merrill for your love and guidance. Your hands have healed many, but you have influenced, for good, so many others.
- Kelli
Angela
I remember when I was accepted into the ATEP program three years ago. Gaye had just recently been named the director of sports medicine and everyone talked about how amazing she was at everything. At first I thought it was kind of ridiculous how much people loved and respected her. They seemed to almost worship her.
It did not take long before I realized that Gaye is a very unique and special person and as far as athletic training is concerned, she is the holy grail. No one does it better. I am proud to now number myself among those who love and respect her for all that she is. She was and always will be who I aspire to be. She had a gift for handling hard situations and I appreciate everything that she did for me.
I love you, Gaye! We'll miss you!
It did not take long before I realized that Gaye is a very unique and special person and as far as athletic training is concerned, she is the holy grail. No one does it better. I am proud to now number myself among those who love and respect her for all that she is. She was and always will be who I aspire to be. She had a gift for handling hard situations and I appreciate everything that she did for me.
I love you, Gaye! We'll miss you!
Jorgan Jacobsen
Gaye was a family friend. To my parents onto us kids, taking care of my sister (Brogan) in Gymnastics, to my brother (Jacoby) in Swimming and even me (Jorgan)in a varitey of ways. I'll miss her because she always made me feel like i was important. Love you Gaye!
Nellie Cheney Johnston
Nellie said...
Gaye is an amazing woman who has touched more lives than I think she will ever know. I hope her family and all those of us who know her can find some peace and joy in remembering the great life she lived. I love you Gaye!
Gaye is an amazing woman who has touched more lives than I think she will ever know. I hope her family and all those of us who know her can find some peace and joy in remembering the great life she lived. I love you Gaye!
Mike Pinegar said:
I am new to the athletic department, having been the Faculty Athletic Representative for slightly less than one year. However, I have fond memories of Gaye from the senior staff meetings. In particular, I remember her sharing a story of Carlos Aragon, a young Hispanic man who was very withdrawn while he was growing up in Orem. His appearance did not bespeak self-confidence or a sense of purpose. However, he joined the marines to serve our country. One Sunday before he was sent to Afghanistan, he showed up in church looking very sharp with his military uniform on. He bore his testimony of the gospel and spoke of the privilege of serving our country. Unfortunately, that service cost him his life. Gaye finished her story by saying that Carlos “got it,” meaning that he had come to understand the purpose of life and of serving others. I am also certain that Gaye got it. She cared about those who were less fortunate. She cared about the gospel.
Mike Pinegar
Mike Pinegar
Ian and Tamra
Ian and Tamra said...
I don't know if there are any words that could truly reflect what Gaye has meant to me. She would go the extra mile for anyone and was a true friend. She exhibited great compassion for one and all. Gaye used to tell me how she loved to spoil her nieces as she always wanted to be the 'Favorite Aunt".
From the comments I've seen, she earned the title. She had a passion for sports and after games when everyone would leave, that is when I would see it the most. I loved talking to her when she was like that because you rarely saw her all riled up about something.Gaye wasn't always the "Director" as I liked to joke with her, but sometimes she was the rebel in the training room. Peanut m&ms and diet coke... is there any other description?
Dressing up as smurfs for Halloween. I still don't know how I got her to paint herself blue!Sharing a room in Cancun. Boy was that a trip...She was a mother to everyone at one point or another.Gaye was a mentor to me and encouraged me in every way. THANK YOU & I LOVE YOU, GAYE!
I don't know if there are any words that could truly reflect what Gaye has meant to me. She would go the extra mile for anyone and was a true friend. She exhibited great compassion for one and all. Gaye used to tell me how she loved to spoil her nieces as she always wanted to be the 'Favorite Aunt".
From the comments I've seen, she earned the title. She had a passion for sports and after games when everyone would leave, that is when I would see it the most. I loved talking to her when she was like that because you rarely saw her all riled up about something.Gaye wasn't always the "Director" as I liked to joke with her, but sometimes she was the rebel in the training room. Peanut m&ms and diet coke... is there any other description?
Dressing up as smurfs for Halloween. I still don't know how I got her to paint herself blue!Sharing a room in Cancun. Boy was that a trip...She was a mother to everyone at one point or another.Gaye was a mentor to me and encouraged me in every way. THANK YOU & I LOVE YOU, GAYE!
Posted on behalf of the Watson's
This is from Larissa Watson.
Dear Heaven,
I was hoping you could tell me what happened to my friend the other day? I know that she is there somewhere. She may not have felt comfortable meeting St Peter at the front gate. There are rumors here on Earth of really big welcoming parties that come out to great each incoming person. The trumpets sounding and the heavenly choirs singing might not be her style (although we all know that she deserves that kind of welcome!) I think that she may have come early, so as not to disturb anyone, and snuck around the back gate to quietly let herself in.
If you don’t have immediate plans for her to begin her new mission, don’t let her have too much down time. I am sure that she is enjoying catching up with, and checking in on, loved ones. However, she is not the type to sit around for very long, and may grow restless in a few days. Please make sure to set up her office in a really cool place that is not so formal. She does her best work in that type of environment. While she may not need to be healing bodies at the moment, she has had plenty of experience healing the souls of her friends here on Earth. In order to facilitate this, she will require a small refrigerator stocked with Diet Coke, chocolate and ice cream. I don’t know if Caffeine-free is all you have, but if you can make an exception in her case, it would really be nice.
Also, please make sure and text her when you begin to pass out angle wings. I have heard that there is a waiting list for the new model. Although, she appears to be rather quiet, don’t let her fool you. She will require the most recent, sleek and aerodynamic set of wings possible. (I don’t know for sure, but I always suspected that she got up early for work and left late, in order to race her car up and down University without getting caught).
Finally, please tell her that our family will miss her. She has been a rock solid friend to my sweet husband for nearly twenty years. He will miss her wisdom, humor and trusted advice. I will miss the fact that he had her to guide him with painful and often difficult decisions. She was one of the first people he knew in the states, helped him in his transition here, answered gospel questions, attended our sealing, danced at our wedding, and rocked each one of our children. Please ask her to check in on him from time to time.
While our loss is profound, your gain is immeasurable. The knowledge that her beautiful spirit is racing around the heavens gives me great peace. Our angle on earth is now our angle in heaven. We look forward to seeing her again.
Sincerely,
The Watson’s
Dear Heaven,
I was hoping you could tell me what happened to my friend the other day? I know that she is there somewhere. She may not have felt comfortable meeting St Peter at the front gate. There are rumors here on Earth of really big welcoming parties that come out to great each incoming person. The trumpets sounding and the heavenly choirs singing might not be her style (although we all know that she deserves that kind of welcome!) I think that she may have come early, so as not to disturb anyone, and snuck around the back gate to quietly let herself in.
If you don’t have immediate plans for her to begin her new mission, don’t let her have too much down time. I am sure that she is enjoying catching up with, and checking in on, loved ones. However, she is not the type to sit around for very long, and may grow restless in a few days. Please make sure to set up her office in a really cool place that is not so formal. She does her best work in that type of environment. While she may not need to be healing bodies at the moment, she has had plenty of experience healing the souls of her friends here on Earth. In order to facilitate this, she will require a small refrigerator stocked with Diet Coke, chocolate and ice cream. I don’t know if Caffeine-free is all you have, but if you can make an exception in her case, it would really be nice.
Also, please make sure and text her when you begin to pass out angle wings. I have heard that there is a waiting list for the new model. Although, she appears to be rather quiet, don’t let her fool you. She will require the most recent, sleek and aerodynamic set of wings possible. (I don’t know for sure, but I always suspected that she got up early for work and left late, in order to race her car up and down University without getting caught).
Finally, please tell her that our family will miss her. She has been a rock solid friend to my sweet husband for nearly twenty years. He will miss her wisdom, humor and trusted advice. I will miss the fact that he had her to guide him with painful and often difficult decisions. She was one of the first people he knew in the states, helped him in his transition here, answered gospel questions, attended our sealing, danced at our wedding, and rocked each one of our children. Please ask her to check in on him from time to time.
While our loss is profound, your gain is immeasurable. The knowledge that her beautiful spirit is racing around the heavens gives me great peace. Our angle on earth is now our angle in heaven. We look forward to seeing her again.
Sincerely,
The Watson’s
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
A Great Friend
Gaye is a mentor, friend, and family member. Gaye is one of those rare people that comes into your life, and has enriched it so much just by knowing her. She never forgot a birthday, anniversary, or special event. There was always a funny card that was given to you. I don't know where she would find them, but I have kept every one of them. She made you feel important, and special. She was a great leader, always leading by example, and would out work any one on the staff at BYU. She would always go to battle with you, and always cared about the student athletes. I can only hope to be as good a person as Gaye is. I look forward to the day I will see Gaye, Ollie, and the gang again!
Some Memories of Gaye
I'm not sure how long these posts are to be, but I thought I'd share some of my favorite memories and reflections of Gaye.
I was finishing my first semester as a Student Athletic Trainer when I first met her in the Fall of 2004. My clinical assignment for my 2nd Semester was to be with Women's Volleyball in their off-season and being determined to reduce the awkwardness of the transition that would span Christmas break, I introduced myself to her during a spontaneous meeting in the main training room. She simply responded, "Oh...I know who you are," looking me in the eye and briefly shaking my hand before heading out the door to practice. That was the thing about Gaye - she KNEW who you were, almost like she knew everything before you even knew her. I hope she did, because the first week of my 2nd clinical assignment, I had a few hours with her before she was out the door again with the Women's Gymnastics team to an invitational in Mexico, leaving me partially in-charge of a team I hadn't even met yet. I still have the note she left in my box that says "If you any need help, just ask Chris, Blaine or Carolyn." (haha, thanks, Gaye.)
Gaye was not a woman of many words if she didn't know you well, but that was the beauty about her - she didn't have to be. She spoke solely with meaning in lengths that were sufficient, and often said more with her looks than she did with her words. There was the "Good job" look; the "Are you sure that's a good idea?" look; the "...really?" look; and the "Pleasantly amused" look to name a few. Deciphering those Gaye-looks as a young SAT took some time and my 1st semester SAT companion, Lindsay Woodbury, and I got a crash course in this during the first 3-4 weeks of our assignment to W's Volleyball. At the time, Gaye had a lot on her plate - taking over the Head AT position from George Curtis, the sudden passing of a BYU team physician who was with them on the trip to Mexico, and stress from pushing state legistlation to approve Athletic Trainer licensure. Lindsay and I went about our business with volleyball practice, doing our best to keep low profiles and not screw up. After one day especially we exchanged confused looks because we weren't sure if we had angered her in some way, but at the end of practice Gaye gave us the signal that everything was actually okay between her and us - she punched me in the shoulder followed by that little smirk she had. In that instant, Lindsay and I formed our bond with Gaye and began to see her true nature (and what a softie she really was).
The years that followed were laced with some of my favorite moments from being in the Athletic Training program and I secretly adopted Gaye, as I think many of us did. While I'm sorry to say my experiences with her were not as abundant as compared to others, I was able to learn much simply by observing her in the subsequent semesters I spent in the program. With as many years as she had in the profession under her belt, she was not above filling water bottles. She had an open door policy and anyone of her athletes or students could come to her, she'd shut the door and it would just be them. She put in as many hours as was necessary to do her job correctly and completely, even down to the most mundane things, and often didn't leave the training room until late. She was professional, but she had some hilarious quirks. She was a master taper. (One of my proudest moments was when one volleyball player who was particular about her ankle taping said that the ankle taping I gave her was Gaye-quality). Above all else, she was humble, unassuming, amazing sense of humor, and had one of the biggest hearts I've ever come across. I guess this is why I miss her so much, even now... she knew how to love, and it translated into her work as a health care provider, a teacher, a mentor, a daughter and servant of God, and a friend.
Much love, Gaye - I miss you sneaking up on me to sucker punch me. Save a space for us over there!
Kate Watkins, DPT, ATC/L
BYU SAT 2004-2007
I was finishing my first semester as a Student Athletic Trainer when I first met her in the Fall of 2004. My clinical assignment for my 2nd Semester was to be with Women's Volleyball in their off-season and being determined to reduce the awkwardness of the transition that would span Christmas break, I introduced myself to her during a spontaneous meeting in the main training room. She simply responded, "Oh...I know who you are," looking me in the eye and briefly shaking my hand before heading out the door to practice. That was the thing about Gaye - she KNEW who you were, almost like she knew everything before you even knew her. I hope she did, because the first week of my 2nd clinical assignment, I had a few hours with her before she was out the door again with the Women's Gymnastics team to an invitational in Mexico, leaving me partially in-charge of a team I hadn't even met yet. I still have the note she left in my box that says "If you any need help, just ask Chris, Blaine or Carolyn." (haha, thanks, Gaye.)
Gaye was not a woman of many words if she didn't know you well, but that was the beauty about her - she didn't have to be. She spoke solely with meaning in lengths that were sufficient, and often said more with her looks than she did with her words. There was the "Good job" look; the "Are you sure that's a good idea?" look; the "...really?" look; and the "Pleasantly amused" look to name a few. Deciphering those Gaye-looks as a young SAT took some time and my 1st semester SAT companion, Lindsay Woodbury, and I got a crash course in this during the first 3-4 weeks of our assignment to W's Volleyball. At the time, Gaye had a lot on her plate - taking over the Head AT position from George Curtis, the sudden passing of a BYU team physician who was with them on the trip to Mexico, and stress from pushing state legistlation to approve Athletic Trainer licensure. Lindsay and I went about our business with volleyball practice, doing our best to keep low profiles and not screw up. After one day especially we exchanged confused looks because we weren't sure if we had angered her in some way, but at the end of practice Gaye gave us the signal that everything was actually okay between her and us - she punched me in the shoulder followed by that little smirk she had. In that instant, Lindsay and I formed our bond with Gaye and began to see her true nature (and what a softie she really was).
The years that followed were laced with some of my favorite moments from being in the Athletic Training program and I secretly adopted Gaye, as I think many of us did. While I'm sorry to say my experiences with her were not as abundant as compared to others, I was able to learn much simply by observing her in the subsequent semesters I spent in the program. With as many years as she had in the profession under her belt, she was not above filling water bottles. She had an open door policy and anyone of her athletes or students could come to her, she'd shut the door and it would just be them. She put in as many hours as was necessary to do her job correctly and completely, even down to the most mundane things, and often didn't leave the training room until late. She was professional, but she had some hilarious quirks. She was a master taper. (One of my proudest moments was when one volleyball player who was particular about her ankle taping said that the ankle taping I gave her was Gaye-quality). Above all else, she was humble, unassuming, amazing sense of humor, and had one of the biggest hearts I've ever come across. I guess this is why I miss her so much, even now... she knew how to love, and it translated into her work as a health care provider, a teacher, a mentor, a daughter and servant of God, and a friend.
Much love, Gaye - I miss you sneaking up on me to sucker punch me. Save a space for us over there!
Kate Watkins, DPT, ATC/L
BYU SAT 2004-2007
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Posting to the blog
It seems that I'm truly a novice at this. It seems that only the "owner" (that's me at the moment) can post. I'd like to have everyone be able to post, not just comment. If you'd like to post something, this includes pictures, memories, stories, words or thanks, etc., email me at jeffrey_hurst@byu.edu and I'll invite you to be an author on the blog.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Gaye Merrill...passing of a dear friend
This blog is dedicated to the memory of a dear friend, sister, and daughter Gaye Merrill. Gaye passed away on May 24, 2010 in the company of her family and friends in Provo, Utah. She will be missed. At the request of her family, I have started this blog. Feel free to share the things you loved about Gaye...memories, stories, pictures, words of thanks, condolences to the family, and anything that you appreciate about the time that you spent working with, learning from, and enjoying time with Gaye.
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