Gayle Ellen Kurtze

Gayle Ellen Kurtze of Hutto, Texas passed away on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the age of 79. She was born in 1946 in Danville, Illinois where she grew up surrounded by many aunts, uncles and beloved cousins.

She graduated from University of Wyoming with a Bachelor of Arts degree and also graduated from the University of Kansas with a Master's Degree in Education.

She worked as a devoted teacher and later a school counselor in the public education system, always advocating for students and their well being.

She was an avid gardener who found joy and peace in tending her plants and watching them thrive, and she lovingly cared for her three rescue dogs, who meant the world to her.

She is survived by her daughters, Kerrie Herrera and Dawn Kurtze, and her granddaughters, Izabel and Alisa Herrera.

Her cousin Bob Powell shared the following memory with us after her passing: “Your Mom always had that huge radiant smile, and frankly she was patient with us ‘little rascal cousins’ when we visited them in Thermopolis in late 1958 or 1959. She was 5 years older than I and 7 years older than my younger brother; so, you can imagine what she as a girl of 14 probably felt like with us 3 kids around. She was always remembered, and loved by my mother Ruth, and Aunt Alice in Muncie, Indiana; and of course, Erma Jane (another cousin) who was the same age.”

The family would like to thank the entire care staff at Texas Oncology for the outstanding assistance provided during her cancer treatments. She was also deeply supported by the care team at Hospice Austin, whose compassion, professionalism, and kindness made it possible for her to receive hospice care comfortably at home. Their presence brought relief, dignity, and peace to both her and her family during her final days.

In lieu of flowers or a service, family and friends are invited to honor Gayle’s memory by making a donation to Jack Jack’s Pack Animal Rescue, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal rescue that was deeply meaningful to her. This organization saves countless street dogs, including those who are sick, injured, or in urgent need of medical care. Their work is only possible through the compassion and support of the community, and continued support is critical to their lifesaving mission in and around the Austin area. Donations in support of this very worthy cause may be made here: https://jackjackspack.org/donate