Marietha Gayton, affectionately called “Precious” and “Nannie,” was born on April 28, 1939, in Bellville, Texas, to the late Delia and David Osborne.
Marietha’s journey on earth was marked by her dedication to her Lord, family, and community. She was a beloved wife to the late Pastor Charles E. Gayton Sr. and a nurturing mother to Larry, Charles E. Jr., Ray, and Darrell Gayton, and their daughter Dionne Townsend.
Marietha attended public schools in Houston, Texas, and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School. She continued her education in San Diego, attending San Diego City College and earning her bachelor’s degree from the Next Dimension School of Theology. She devoted her professional life to caring for others as a nurse, serving with the San Diego Health Association and later at Kaiser Permanente on Zion.
As a devout Christian and ordained Evangelist, Marietha’s life was a living sermon. Her ministry work included serving in the Southwest District Ministers Wife and Widows Auxiliary, President of the Sick and Shut-In Auxiliary, Sunday School Teacher, Evangelistic Team member, Noon Day Prayer Leader, Homeless Committee volunteer, Juvenile Hall Bible Teacher, and leading Bible studies throughout the community.
Marietha loved reading and studying the Bible. Known as a Fashionista, she enjoyed shopping, thrifting, working out, and Zumba. She also dedicated herself to feeding the homeless, living out her faith through acts of kindness and spreading joy.
Marietha was known for her faith-filled spirit, loving nature, and humor. She loved deeply, touching many hearts. As we celebrate her transition from earth to eternal life, we remember a woman whose prayers lifted hearts, whose presence brought comfort, and whose laughter filled rooms with joy. Let us honor her memory by living with the same faith, love, and joy she embodied.
Her journey ended on March 2, 2026, peacefully at home. Awaiting her were her parents, husband Charles E. Gayton Sr., sisters; Mary Bullard, Doris Osborne, Maggie Humphrey, and Tommie Johnson, brothers; Jack, Jewel, Henry, and Elmer Charles Osborne, and sons; Larry and Charles E. Gayton Jr.
She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter Dionne Townsend (Tonny), son Ray Gayton, sister-in-law Vivian Osborne of Houston, Texas, daughter-in-law Carol B. Gayton, grandchildren; Ariel Townsend, Dalmeashia Z. Gayton, and Charles E. Gayton III, along with nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, and dear friends.
Marietha’s life was a testament to unwavering faith and love.
