Activist, union leader, justice advocate Carol Gay, dead at age 76

Carol Elaine Gay, a tireless activist, dedicated union leader, and lifelong advocate for workers’ rights, passed away on August 28, 2024, has died at the age of 76 after a valiant fight against leukemia.

Carol was a beacon of strength and compassion, known for her relentless commitment to social justice, labor rights, and peace activism. Her passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew her and in the broader activist community she passionately served.

Born in Opelika, Alabama, Carol’s journey began in the Deep South, where she nurtured her passion for justice and equality. She pursued her academic interests at Georgia College & State University, earning a degree in Sociology. Her formative years were spent in Louisville, Georgia, where she attended Louisville Academy, before embarking on a career that would leave an indelible mark on the labor movement.

Carol’s career in labor advocacy began with her work as an elementary school teacher in Georgia. However, her true calling emerged when she became a social worker in New Jersey in 1972.

It was here that she first became involved with the Communications Workers of America (CWA), quickly rising through the ranks of Local 1084 to become its vice president.

In 1981, she joined the CWA staff as an international representative, a role in which she excelled for over two decades. Carol was known for her skill in organizing, bargaining, and serving on the CWA Public Employees Bargaining Council. Her commitment to workers’ rights was unwavering, and she became a respected figure within the union and beyond.

Throughout her career, Carol was also a member of the Coalition of Labor Union Women and the National Organization for Women (NOW).

She was deeply involved in political campaigns and lobbying efforts at both the state and federal levels, always championing the rights of working people.

Her leadership extended beyond her formal roles; Carol was the president of the New Jersey State Industrial Union Council (IUC), where she continued the fighting tradition of the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO), advocating for policies that promoted social justice and economic security for all.

Carol’s activism was not confined to New Jersey. In 2010, she traveled to Egypt to organize U.S. labor support for war-torn Palestine, demonstrating her commitment to global solidarity. Her dedication to peace and justice took her to Washington, New York, Standing Rock, and even Gaza. Carol was a force of nature, always on the front lines of the fight for justice, and her energy was unmatched.

Those who knew Carol remember her as an inspiration, a mentor, and a friend. “Carol was always there and was always fighting and organizing and rallying, and though she was in her 70s, no one could keep up with her,” said Dan Cummings.

“She was indeed one of the most passionate people you could ever meet,” echoed James Dooros, a member of the Central Jersey Coalition Against Endless War. “Her efforts and impact will live on. May her memory be eternal!”

The American Labor Museum expressed its deep sorrow at her passing:”We are truly heartbroken and deeply saddened by the news of Carol Gay’s passing. President of the NJ Industrial Union Council, co-founder of the NJ IUC Solidarity Singers, and a dedicated Labor Museum member, she will be sorely missed, but will forever live in our minds and hearts.”

Progressive Democrat Lisa McCormick also paid tribute to Carol, noting, “New Jersey is mourning the loss of a great leader. I can only express my gratitude for Carol’s leadership and service, with my sincere sympathy to her family and the many people around the state and nation who loved and admired her.”

“Carol was the longtime president of the NJ Industrial Union Council & a very dedicated activist. We disagreed profoundly on electoral work, but beyond that found common cause on many issues over the years,” said former Socialist Party USA national chair Pat Noble. “Back in 2013, I had this privilege to speak alongside Carol at the first Jersey Shore Activist Forum that we helped to organize and our organizations co-sponsored. Her passing is a tremendous loss to the activist community & movement building in New Jersey.”

Carol’s life will be celebrated at a memorial service scheduled for September 21 at The Reformed Church of Highland Park in Highland Park, NJ. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who fight for workers’ rights, social justice, and peace.

Carol Gay’s life was a testament to the power of dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of society. Her impact on the labor movement and the lives of countless individuals will not be forgotten. She leaves behind a legacy of activism, leadership, and hope for a more just and equitable world. May she rest in power.