Ivan Buxton Gay Jr

Ivan Buxton Gay Jr. is an experienced Industrial Engineer, Land Surveyor and proud Navy Veteran who served during the Vietnam War. The small business owner and entrepreneur is also an avid sports fan who avidly follows each basketball season. 

A man from humble beginnings, Ivan Buxton Gay Jr. has overcome great adversity in his life.  Ivan was raised by a loving SAH mom while his father worked hard for the railroad company.  Although they were poor in finances, they were rich in love for each other.  Their hardworking nature inspired Ivan, the youngest of three, to commit to his goals in life.  With his sights set on the bigger picture, Ivan maintained a successful career in the military, serving in the Navy during the Vietnam War service.  He also accomplished great career feats in Industrial Engineering as a Land Surveyor, as well as in business as an entrepreneur managing a small business. 

Industrial Engineering

Land Surveyor / Bridge Surveyor

After attending the State University for three semesters, Ivan Buxton Gay Jr. entered the workforce in support of his loved ones.  Following a heart attack experienced by his father, Ivan Buxton Gay Sr., Ivan took up work at the State Highway Department as a Land Surveyor.  This experience set the foundation for his experience in industrial engineering.  During his work as a Bridge Surveyor, Ivan was chiefly responsible for surveying bridges during the development and building of Interstate 40 and I-85: critical components of the State Highway.

Navy Veteran 

Ivan Buxton Gay Jr. is a proud Navy Veteran.  Ivan served in the military during the Vietnam War.  During his military career, his greatest honor was having the opportunity to serve his country on the USS Forrestal.  Ivan was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1970 and continues to wear his experiences as a veteran like a badge of honor.  Ivan proudly supports the men and women who have fought for and continue to fight for our nation.

Small Business Owner / Entrepreneur

Ivan Buxton Gay Jr. became a Small Business Owner in the restaurant industry in 1968.  Working as a means to provide for his loved ones, Ivan took on critical roles in the restaurant.  The Small Business Owner and Entrepreneur was hands-on in helping grow the business.  He started out in the kitchen, cooking delicious food that brought the community together.  His efforts helped the restaurant turn a profit, which supported his loved ones for more than three years.  Unfortunately, the restaurant was destroyed in a fire; a tragic event that changed the course of Ivan’s life.  Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Ivan learned a great deal as a Small Business Owner and Entrepreneur through that experience: namely, that hard work truly is worthwhile.  During his time as a Small Business Owner in the restaurant industry, Ivan was a member of the Restaurant Association, the Chamber of Commerce and local division of the Better Business Bureau.