Gail Ruth Martin

She was born April 9, 1953, in Nacogdoches County to parents William Howard Bass and Marjorie Vera (Strahan) Bass. Gail was the longtime operator of Martin's Kennels.

Her survivors include her husband, Douglas Martin; son, Jeffrey David Todd and wife Tanis of Nacogdoches; grandsons, Zachary Todd of Nacogdoches and Shannon Todd, serving with the U.S. Navy; granddaughters, Kate Kovar, Josie Kovar; brother, Randy Bass and wife Jackie of Nacogdoches; nephew, Joshua Bass and wife Lindsey; and a great-niece, Wesley Grace Bass.

Gail was a lifetime resident of Nacogdoches. She attended Nacogdoches High School. In 1978, she married the love of her life, Douglas Martin and they have been married almost 38 years. Gail started her sideline business of grooming dogs on April 4, 1992. Shortly after she saw the need to board dogs and she slowly added her kennels to care for “furr” babies. She loved animals like they were her children and people could trust their animals to her care. It was common to watch over 100 animals a night during vacation seasons, storms and Holidays. She had integrity, treated people fairly and her friendly spirit kept her business secure. She recently retired due to health problems but her love for animals she kept. When she had free time you might find her reading her bible, watching TBN or ME TV. She was a homebody, loved to cook. Her favorite things to cook included fried pork chops, lasagna, gumbo and banana pudding. Her kind heart and loving smile will be greatly missed.

She was preceded in death by her father, Howard Bass, on March 26, 2014; and her mother, Vera Bass, on September 1, 2015.

Gail's family appreciates the wonderful care offered by Hospice of East Texas. In lieu of flowers, they are suggesting memorials to Hospice of East Texas; 4111 University Blvd.; Tyler, TX 75701-6623.

Funeral services are set for 3:00 p.m. Sunday, August 21, 2016, at Bethel Baptist Church in Appleby, Texas, with Bro. Sonny Scarborough and Bro. Jeremiah Moss officiating. Interment will follow at Bethel Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Saturday, August 20, 2016, at Cason Monk-Metcalf.

Arrangements are under the direction of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors, located at 5400 North Street in Nacogdoches, Texas.