A Tribute to Gayle: A Lifetime of Selfless Service and Unwavering Love and Kindness

Date: July 17, 2024Author: Surfside Washington

Gayle was a remarkable woman whose entire life was dedicated to saving lives and training others to do the same. Her selflessness, generosity, and unwavering care for others left an indelible mark on everyone she touched. As my mother-in-law, Gayle exemplified what it meant to live a life of purpose, love, and compassion.

Gayle’s life was a testament to the power of selfless service. She was always more concerned about the well-being of others than her own. Wealth and material possessions never mattered to her; instead, she gave away her money generously, often to a fault. Her priority was always the people she loved and the communities she served.

Her devotion to her family was unwavering. She was married to her husband George for 55 years, and when he contracted Alzheimer’s and macular degeneration, it made him partially blind.  She tirelessly cared for him. Witnessing someone succumb to Alzheimer’s is incredibly challenging, yet Gayle faced this struggle with immense strength and kindness. Her love for her husband and dedication to his care were tremendously inspiring.  A couple married for 55 years deeply cherished each other, their bond growing stronger and an example of true love. Her closeness with my wife Kathryn is based on her love for all her family.

Gayle’s career in nursing was distinguished and impactful. She earned her degree in nursing and spent 42 years working as a nurse, She held numerous positions, including Staff Nurse at various hospitals and a long tenure at Los Alamos Medical Center. She also served as an instructor at the University of New Mexico and Northern New Mexico Community College.  She held various positions with the Los Alamos American Red Cross and the Los Alamos Council on Cancer.Her entire professional life was dedicated to saving lives and equipping others with the skills to do the same.

Even in her retirement, Gayle continued to serve others. She became a volunteer ombudsman for nursing homes in the Portland area, advocating for patients and ensuring their grievances were addressed. Her work was especially critical during the pandemic when nursing homes were under lockdown. Despite the risks, Gayle donned a hazmat suit and mask to comfort and support the elderly residents, many of whom were isolated and alone. Her efforts during this challenging time were nothing short of heroic.

Tragically, Gayle’s own health took a turn for the worse when she broke her hip and entered a rehab facility in Marysville. The very nurses and administrators she had once trained and supported now cared for her. Their gratitude and admiration for Gayle were evident, with one nurse from India expressing heartfelt thanks for the encouragement and training Gayle had provided.

Gayle’s impact extended far beyond her professional achievements. She loved nature, the Oregon coast, and the Pacific Northwest. Annual trips to Lincoln City and Cannon Beach with her husband and family were cherished traditions. Even after her husband’s passing, Gayle continued these trips, relishing the beauty of the coast and the joy of being with family.

Her love for Native American culture, nature and the art of Santa Fe was another significant aspect of her life. Gayle’s home was filled with art and crafts from her time in Los Alamos, Albuquerque, and Santa Fe, serving as constant reminders of her deep appreciation for the culture, nature and history of the region. They had money but lived in a modest home built as base housing in the 50s. She preferred to give away her money instead of spending it herself.

Gayle’s legacy is profound kindness, generosity, and dedication to others. She taught me invaluable lessons about love, the importance of family, caring for older people, and the meaninglessness of pursuing wealth. Her example inspires me and many others to strive to positively impact the lives of others, particularly the elderly and vulnerable and a deep respect for nature and the coastal environment..

Our annual family get-together was a blessing; she was able to see all who loved her before she became seriously ill. She felt really weak after that reunion and I took her to the hospital.  The last few weeks were tough but I made sure  she received the best care and doing whatever she needed.  I could see her despair as she became weaker , but I reminded her of her whole life. I reminded her that she had dedicated her life to saving others, loving her family, giving to others, and serving the most vulnerable. I told her that her legacy was one of profound love and compassion. Her family loves her deeply and we are her to support her. She smiled with her loving smile. The next few days were tough as we learned she had cancer and she struggled the next few weeks.  In the following days, her family and friends showered her with heartfelt encouragement and love.   She passed away on Friday, and although I feel immense sadness, it was a privilege to have her as my mother-in-law.

As we say goodbye to Gayle, we remember her as a gentle soul who brought sunshine and warmth to everyone she met. Her life was a beacon of selfless service, and her legacy will continue to inspire and guide us. While we will miss her deeply, we are grateful for the time we had with her and the profound impact she had on our lives.

Rest in peace, Gayle. Your legacy of love, care, and service will forever be remembered and cherished. She was a beacon of light in a dark world and now reunited with the love of her life, George. I hope her story inspires others to live selflessly, especially in service to the most vulnerable.