Gail Elizabeth Harris

Stunned by the news that Aaron “ferret face” Rodgers continues to find meaningful work in the National Football League, Gail Harris (née Gawin), age 79, lost all hope that the people of Earth would get their act together and passed away on June 5, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Born on July 4, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, Gail lived a life of joy, curiosity, spirited conversation, and a deep love for her family.

Gail grew up on the south side of Chicago, but across town, she met the one true love of her life: The Chicago Cubs. She was a proud co-founder of the Ron Santo fan club and author of The Santonian newsletter. She was overjoyed that the Cubs won the World Series in 2016—a feat she feared they might never accomplish again. Her passion for the Cubs was shared with her family, and it was an illness she unfortunately passed on to her two children. (Oh, she also met her husband of 19 years in Chicago).

From a very young age, it was clear that Gail was an intelligent individual who effectively utilized her strengths throughout her nearly sixty-year nursing career. She actively participated in the Association of Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) and served on its Board of Directors. Infection control wasn’t just her profession; it was her passion. She once consoled her young son, who was panicked about the possibility of nuclear war, by assuring him that humanity was much more likely to be wiped out by a super-virus than by an H-bomb. She also frequently scolded her kids when they left pizza out on the kitchen counter too long, which led to them being the most annoying and least cool college roommates ever.

She also had a keen interest in politics, engaging in thoughtful discussions that showcased her insight, wit, and compassion for those less fortunate. Frustrated by our political climate of late, she was known to yell at the television with gusto. She swore, however, that she would never be like her father and would not write letters to her congressional representatives. Sadly, as many a member of Congress will attest, she was not able to keep this promise.

Her favorite topic, besides her cats, was her grandchildren. Gail was an involved and enthusiastic grandma, participating in various hobbies, sleepovers, activities, and bestowing gifts. One of her favorite “jobs” was driving her granddaughter to activities – she always treasured every in-depth conversation and heart-to-heart. Gail and her partner-in-crime/granddaughter were quite a pair; we will miss hearing about their adventures.

Gail never met a stranger—her warmth and openness made everyone feel welcome. Whether striking up a conversation at the ballpark or sharing stories in an airport, she had an uncanny ability to connect with people from all walks of life. We can only think of one group that she truly hated (other than the Green Bay Packers), and that was pigeons. One day, her granddaughter learned some new, colorful language when a pigeon crossed Gail’s path.

An avid reader, Gail devoured books, and you were wise to take note if she pushed a particular book on you. She loved playing solitaire and playing along with Jeopardy. She maintained deep friendships across the country with so many people from throughout her life and enjoyed traveling around the world to see those friends. She had plans to travel to Europe next year with her dearest friend, MaryAnn. Sadly, the Universe had other ideas. Her retirement was spent playing games, reading to her grandkids, and doting on her cats.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Jenn and son-in-law Jeff; her grandchildren Payton and Michael; her son John and daughter-in-law Tracie. She was preceded in death by her husband John; her parents Gilbert and Gladys Gawin; and her brother Gilbert (Butch).

At Gail’s request, please consider a donation to Three Square Food Bank in Las Vegas, NV, in lieu of flowers. You could also consider yelling at a pigeon or two.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Giordano’s in Las Vegas, NV, on August 2nd. Contact her kids for details if you would like to join us.

May Gail’s memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.