Gayle Esther Smith

Gayle Esther Smith, born on August 13, 1956, in Tucson, Arizona, to James(D) and Faye McCue, passed away peacefully at her home in Phoenix, Arizona, on January 17, 2025, after a courageous battle with lung cancer.

Gayle was married to Daniel Smith on March 12th, 2005 and was a devoted mother to D'Shane (Ashley) Cannon and D'Shon (Sharonda) Cannon and a loving stepmother to Vori (Cody) Stinson. She cherished her grandchildren: Duvious Cannon, Kiason Cannon, Na’Liyah(D), Samiah Davis, Gloria Faye Cannon, Audrey Mae Cannon, Anabelle Stinson, Sophie Stinson, Penny Stinson, and Rosie Stinson. She was also a beloved twin sister to Joan Clark, an older sister to John McCue, and a younger sister to Marilynn Lucas and Steve McCue. Gayle’s extended family included many nieces and nephews whom she adored.

A graduate of Catalina High School in Tucson in 1974, Gayle excelled as an athlete. She was undefeated in volleyball during her junior and senior years and was inducted into the Pima County Sports Hall of Fame with her team in 2018. After moving to Phoenix in 1976, she continued her athletic pursuits by playing high-level fast-pitch softball with the Queens, forming lifelong friendships along the way.

Professionally, Gayle worked as a dedicated loan processor for many years, offering her expertise to clients in Phoenix and across the United States. In retirement, she enjoyed cooking, gardening—especially growing tomatoes—fishing trips (with Alaska being her favorite destination), and attending rock concerts nationwide. Her love for animals was boundless, particularly for dogs.

Gayle’s warmth and vibrant spirit touched everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

A memorial service will be held on March 1st at noon at A.L. Moore-Grimshaw Mortuary Bethany Chapel, 710 W Bethany Home Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013. May her memory bring comfort to all who loved her.