Georgena Way, a devoted servant of God and beloved matriarch, passed away on March 20, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and selfless service to others. She was born on October 22, 1936 in Holidays Cove, Weirton, West Virginia, and most recently resided in Tampa, Florida.

Georgena lived a life centered on her faith and her love for people. She was dedicated to serving not just the Lord, but her church, and most fulfilled when she was serving others— a truth which was evident in everything she did. She had a gift for cooking and baking, delighting family and friends with anything she prepared for them. She enjoyed a wide variety of foods, especially crab legs, Thai, Chinese, and Mexican cuisine.

A woman of many talents, Georgena loved sewing, basket weaving, and flower arranging. She also cherished time spent at the beach, one of her favorite places to be. In her younger years, Georgena had a vibrant and joyful spirit, serving as both a majorette and cheerleader in high school. She went on to marry her high school sweetheart, and at just 19 years old, thoughtfully crafted her own wedding dress—a beautiful reflection of her creativity, dedication, and love. She enjoyed watching Hallmark movies and Fox News, and found joy in gospel music, especially the sounds of The Gaithers, The Spears, and The Collingsworth Family.

Above all, Georgena loved her family deeply and unconditionally. She greeted everyone with a smile and accepted all as if they were part of her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who poured her life into those she loved.

Georgena is survived by her four children: Jim Way and his wife Janet; Emily Lennon; Colleen VanFossen and her husband Greg; and Valerie Bednarz and her husband Andy. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren, twenty-two great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

Her life was a beautiful testimony of service, devotion, and unwavering love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in her honor to Tampa Community Church of the Nazarene (shelbygiving.com/App/Form/bb5d8110-2b9a-4279-851d-5c768acf6a41) or Suncoast Hospice Tampa.

Celebration of Life Service on April 2, 2026 at 2pmTampa Community Church of the Nazarene5101 N Rome Ave, Tampa, FL 3360