Gayle Dianne Hatala

February 1, 1950 – February 13, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce that Gayle Dianne Hatala, 75, of Arlington, Texas, passed away peacefully in Dallas on February 13, 2025.

Gayle was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on February ,1950, to Joseph and Joyce Elliott. She spent her childhood in Toronto and attended high school at Burnhamthorpe Collegiate Institute in Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada. She was very involved in school life, studying business administration, being active in the sorority, and developing lifelong friendships. It was at B.C.I. that she met the love of her life, Mike, in 1968. Gayle and Mike were married on June 19, 1971 began their journey in marriage of 54 years. In October 1975 they welcomed their first son, Marcus, and in November 1979 their family grew with the happy arrival of their second son, David. Despite establishing deep roots in Ontario, when business opportunities arose in the U.S.A., the couple took the courageous step of relocating their family to Arlington, Texas, in 1989. Gayle wasted no time in developing new friendships while continuing to nurture the deep relationships she had with her friends in Canada.

Gayle was keenly interested in her community and, with Mike, participated in church ministry and other benevolent endeavors. An accomplished gourmet chef, Gayle tirelessly sought out new recipes to add to her repertoire. Gayle’s volunteer work led her to a position with the City of Arlington where she enjoyed contributing her talents for over twenty-five years. In addition, her love of travel led to a lasting partnership working with her favorite travel agency with partners Michele and Valerie.

Gayle is remembered for her beautiful smile, her love of travel and fashion, her devotion to her husband, family, and friends, and her kindness, generosity, and deep and abiding love. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, and friend. Gayle will be deeply missed -- the world was a better place with her in it, but those who knew will her hold her in their hearts and memories forever.

Gayle is survived by her husband, Mike; her mother, Joyce; her son, David; grandsons Davin, Jackson and Austin. Gayle is predeceased by her father, Joseph Elliott; stepfather, Jack Snyder; and son, Marcus Hatala.

Gayle’s family is grateful for the outstanding care and support provided by the doctors, nurses, and staff at UT Southwestern Clements Hospital. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to UT Southwestern Research Medical Center in Gayle’s name.

Memorial Service: 2:00 pm., Friday, March 14, 2025 at Moore Bowen Road Funeral Home, 4216 S. Bowen Rd., Arlington, TX 76016.