Fountain Hills recently lost one of “the originals,” Fay Gridley.

Looking back over the history of this town, some individuals, families, businesses and the like stand out as pillars of the community; always there to offer their support. Fay Gridley was a unique individual because she herself, her family and their business, Gridleys of Fountain Hills, all fall into that category.

A part of this community for nearly 45 years, Gridley and her family helped get Fountain Hills rolling full steam ahead. She was always involved in a project or 12, and her entire business was founded on the idea of helping other local businesses succeed. Fay was also instrumental in the town’s incorporation, the early governance of the Chamber of Commerce and so many other facets that have helped create the town we know today.

Fountain Hills owes a debt of gratitude to Fay Gridley, though we know such accolades were never her objective; she simply loved the town she called home. She will be missed.