Gaye Arlene Hershey

Gaye Arlene "Tuffy" Hershey (née Swan), 93, was born on August 17, 1932, in Liberal, Kansas. She grew up on a beautiful farmstead with her parents and two siblings in Beaver County, Oklahoma.

Gaye began her early education in a one-room schoolhouse, traveling to class during the winter months in a wheeled stock tank pulled by a horse. Her journey continued at Greenough before she attended Turpin High School, where she graduated as Valedictorian of her class and met Jimmie Hershey whom she would later marry.

A devoted wife and mother, Gaye created a warm and welcoming home alongside her late husband, Jimmie Hershey. She later attended a school to learn an intricate style of knitting which she would use to make warm sweaters for her family. She took immense pride in cultivating a beautiful garden and was known for her love of flowers. Her passion for nature extended into art as she mastered the Norwegian painting style of Rosemaling. Gaye adorned her home with warm knitted afghans, painted furniture and wooden décor that reflected her artistic talent and appreciation for beauty.

Gaye’s legacy lives on through her loving family. She is survived by her daughter, Sherri Janzen; two granddaughters and their husbands, Kate and Adam Juden, Amanda and Chris Segler; as well as five great-grandchildren: Andrew Juden, Daniel Juden, Isaac Segler, Elias Segler, and Olina Segler.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Warren and Leola Swan; her brother James Swan; her sister Betty Jo (Jodie) Heitschmidt; and her beloved husband Jimmie Hershey.

Gaye’s life was one of grace and dedication—whether tending to her garden or painting delicate floral designs in Rosemaling style. Her memory will continue to bloom in the hearts of those who knew her.

A Viewing will be held on April 9, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 05:00 PM at Clark Funeral Home 124 Second St. Beaver, Oklahoma. A Funeral Service will be held on April 10, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM at Forgan Methodist Church 321 Main St. Graveside service to follow.