Pauline Gist was born March 16, 1926 in Tulare, California to Herrold and Nellie Gist. Pauline was a lifelong educator and mentor, not only in the classroom, but to her family, peers, community, and her caregivers. She had 97 years of success stories, advice, challenges, and friendships that were shared with anyone who listened. On June 1, 2023, the last grades were given and her classroom was locked, as God saw that she was tired, took her hand, and lead her to her heavenly home. Pauline is now reunited with her parents and two sisters, Beverly Sorensen and Ann Garner.
Pauline graduated from Sanger High in 1944 and Fresno State College in 1948, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Home Economics. Pauline resided in Salinas, California for almost 70 years. She taught Home Economics, Food Services/Hospitality, and Child Development in the Salinas School District for 44 years. Pauline moved to Fresno in June 2022 and resided at Oakmont Senior Living.
Pauline is survived by her nieces and nephews: Kathy Niederfrank (Eddie); Craig Sorensen (Micki); Eric Sorensen (Cricket); Tracy Thompson (Jeff); Christi Stevenson (Steve); Cindy Barton (Brent); and Kelly Garner Keyes (Rob). She is also survived by 15 great nieces and nephews and 9 great-great nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Monday, June 12, 2023 from 5-7 pm at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns, and Blair Funeral Home 836 E. Nees Ave., Fresno CA. Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at 11 am at Sanger Cemetery. Remembrances may be sent in Pauline's name to: Steinbeck House, 132 Central Avenue, Salinas CA 93901 or Valley Children's Hospital, PO Box 1248, Madera, CA 93639-1248
