Gail was a person shaped by fun and love. Thoughts of her recall her openness, acceptance, and complete lack of judgment. She was also remarkable in her ability to stay connected with people over the years.
I’ll never forget her trip to visit us in Roseville – made especially so she could see my brother and me, her cousins, and our mom, “Auntie Carol,” whom she missed and remembered so fondly. The visit required a long journey to a small town in Northern California. I was in high school at the time, and the visit meant so much to my mother, my brother, and me. It also revealed her generous heart, even though many in the family had taken sides after my parents’ bitter divorce. My mother wasn’t related to Gail by blood, but Gail refused to choose a side. She was simply joyful to see my mom, and she often recalled her gracious hospitality and colorful sense of fun. Gail would also regularly ask about all the cousins, aunts, and uncles in our boisterous Italian family.
Her way of being was refreshing – and a relief – to me, a late teen who felt the divisions in the family as a heavy burden. She showed me that people could choose a different path, and she opened my eyes to a more generous, expansive way of moving through the world.
You are still a blessing to us, Gail, and your goodness leaves a legacy.