~Legacy of Life ~ 

Latoya Tanisha Gainey, a devoted servant of Christ, beloved wife, mother, daughter, and sister, entered the Presence of the Lord on April 9, 2026. Verse 15 of the 116th Psalm (AMPC) states, “Precious (important and no light matter) in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints (His loving ones)” and we are indeed grateful that our Heavenly Father has received her into His Loving Arms.

Latoya was born on May 12, 1977, in Ft. Lauderdale to Jackie (White) Watkins and Jake Watkins. A native of South Florida, she was educated in the Broward County school system and was a proud graduate of Boyd Anderson High School, Class of 1995. Latoya’s life was defined by her unwavering faith and her deep, sacrificial love for her family. She was a vibrant testament to the beauty of a life surrendered to God.

Shortly after high school, Latoya met the love of her life, Derrick. She excitedly accepted his proposal, and their union began on November 26, 1996. Together, they were blessed with five beautiful children who were the pride and joy of her life. Latoya held her family in the highest regard, nurturing her home with warmth, prayer, and wisdom. As a wife to Pastor Derrick, she was a constant partner and source of strength. As a mother to DeVon, Alera, Layna, Mayah, and Celena, she modeled a life of integrity and kindness.

In 2004, Latoya, Derrick, and children relocated to Gainesville, FL, alongside her cherished mother-in-law and her father-in-law, the late Dr. Daniel E. Gainey, whose legacy of faith she continued to uphold with honor. A pillar of the faith community, she served with distinction as the First Lady of High Springs Church of God by Faith and Hope to the World Family Church. Her ministry was defined by her passion for praise; she worshiped God with her whole heart and led others into His Presence as a dedicated Worship Leader. Her musical leadership extended to the Gainesville District Church of God by Faith, where she served faithfully as the Choir Directress, using her gift to uplift the body of Christ. Beyond her home and church, Latoya’s heart for service extended into her community.

Her commitment to service was equally evident in her professional life. For 21 years, she served with excellence advancing from entry status at the Alachua County Communications Office to administration as the Executive Manager of the Alachua County Commission Office. Her colleagues knew her as a woman of profound integrity, wisdom, and kindness, who balanced her professional responsibilities with an unwavering commitment to her faith and family.

Latoya was preceded in eternal rest by her father-in-law, Dr. Daniel Gainey.

Latoya entered the sunset of life on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at UF Health Shands Gainesville.

Her legacy of love and faith is carried on by her devoted husband, Derrick; their five children: DeVon, Alera, Layna, Mayah, and Celena; her parents: Jackie Watkins and Jake Watkins; her mother-in-law: Margaret Jones (Charlie); her siblings: Lexia Sanders (Gregory), Diamond Watkins, Alisha Watkins, LaTia Permenter, Shenikca Bethea, Tavares Watkins; her sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Corliss Gainey, Alkatrinia Payne (Steve), Hornzena Gainey, Dene Gainey, Duane Gainey (Audrey), Omichele Williams (John); her beloved nieces and nephews; and a host of extended family, church members, and friends who were all touched by her light.