Gayle Smith Watler

mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and friend to all whose lives she touched. Gayle passed

away unexpectedly on August 17, 2019 due to complications from surgery.

Gayle was born to Walter and Gerry Smith on January 26, 1942 in Port Arthur, Texas, where

she lived with her siblings Clark and Michael Smith. She attended Thomas Jefferson High

School and was a majorette in the Maroon and Gold marching band. She attended Lamar

University where she met her future husband, Kenneth G. Watler. After Kenneth graduated

from college, they married on August 31, 1963 and lived in New Orleans, Louisiana. A year

later, they relocated to Houston where Gayle enrolled at the University of Houston. Upon

graduation, she went to work in the accounting department for Cockrell Oil. In 1969 Gayle

resigned and focused on raising their two sons, Ken and Kevin.

Gayle exuded positivity and optimism. She shared a welcoming smile and uplifting spirit with

all she met. She was an honest friend and loyal neighbor. Gayle was an active member of St.

Martin’s Episcopal Church and served on the Docent Guild. She enjoyed her weekly games of

mahjong and bunco.

Most importantly she loved spending time with her six grandchildren and they, in turn, adored

her. Weekends and holidays at Gigi’s house and summers of “Camp Gigi” are precious

memories for them.

Gayle is survived by her husband of 56 years, Kenneth G. Watler, Sr. of Houston, TX, and son

Kenneth G. Watler, Jr., spouse Lori Calderoni Watler and children Gavin, Kristin and William of

Houston, TX and son Kevin G. Watler, spouse Katherine Carlson Watler and children Margaret,

George and Lauren of Fort Worth, TX.

Memorial services will be held for Gayle at St. Martins Episcopal Church, 515 Sage Road on

August 22 at 3pm. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to St. Martins Episcopal

Church.