Gina Lynn Dooley, beloved mother, proud “YaYa”, and thoughtful friend to many, passed away on September 17th, 2024, in Carrollton, Texas. Gina was born on October 26th, 1957, in Orange, Texas to the late Virginia Finnell.
Gina is survived by her loving daughters Jenna (George) Carter and Christina Dooley, as well as her cherished grandchildren Will and Ava Carter, and Jay Wallace. As the oldest of four siblings, she leaves behind her brothers, Mike and Mark Green, and sisters, Angie Byerly and Shari Mullinax. Gina was a devoted “YaYa” who took great joy in spending time with her family.
Throughout her life, Gina successfully explored many hobbies and careers – she was a mom, grandmother, seamstress, gardener, student, teacher, entrepreneur, trivia buff, avid book reader, vinyl record and antiques collector, coffee connoisseur, tested home chef, and passionate IT professional who proudly named herself the “Computer Goddess”.
In 2001, she returned to school to receive an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Computer Science-Networking and Telecommunications from Kilgore College. She graduated top of her class with honors and enjoyed her time as a student so much that she spent a short time afterward teaching at the college. Gina went on to start her own IT business through which many of her clients sought her out specifically for her patient nature and her inclination to share her expertise. She would often spend her afternoons troubleshooting, educating, and sharing stories, and she enjoyed getting to know her clients on a personal level. Her love for technology was countered with an equal admiration for vintage gadgets and an appreciation for the simpler things in life.
For forty years, Gina called Longview home and became rooted in the community. As a self-taught home cook with an affinity for Cajun cuisine, she was thoroughly practiced in making gumbo, etouffee, shrimp creole, and a number of other dishes that tested her knowledge for cooking. Those that knew her well, will remember her best creations fondly, and will struggle to reproduce them in her absence, as she wanted to be missed for her recipes. Gina was eternally curious, fiercely independent, with an off-beat sense of humor, a habit for learning and a unique propensity for finding personal gifts for those she loved. She is truly irreplaceable, and she will be remembered for being a deeply intelligent, funny and generous friend and family member.
A celebration of Gina’s life will be held in 2025, in Orange, TX, surrounded by family and loved ones who will forever cherish their memories with this unique and remarkable woman.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to VITAS Hospice for the exceptional care provided in her final days. Additionally, the family extends their appreciation and recognition to Pam and Laurence Mays for their guidance, dedication and support in making plans for Gina during the last weeks of her life and afterward.
Gina leaves behind a legacy filled with unconditional love for her family, laughter and unforgettable moments shared with those fortunate enough to have known her. She will be sorely missed, but never forgotten. May she rest peacefully knowing that she made an indelible mark on all the lives she touched.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the American Cancer Society and/or the Animal Protection League of Longview as an expression of sympathy.
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