Gail Eggerling

Gail Eggerling (Hendrix)

September 30, 1935 – October 25, 2025

Our beloved Old Bird, Gail Eggerling (Hendrix), was born on September 30, 1935, in Waverly, Nebraska, and passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones and her her loyal dog, Lucy.

Gail spent her final weeks at Grace Space Hospice House, under the compassionate care of both Grace Space and Horisun Hospice. The staff surrounded her with love, warmth, and joy — making her final days peaceful and full of comfort. Her family will forever be grateful for the kindness, dignity, and care shown to her during that time. From her earliest days on the farm, where she’d ride horses with her cousins and find a little trouble to get into, it was clear she was one of a kind — tenacious, mischievous, and full of spark. Her door was always open, her heart even more so. Whether you came for advice, a story, or just a slice of her famous pie, you were welcomed as family.

For 40 years, Gail managed her properties with sharp wit and an unshakable sense of fairness. She cared deeply for her tenants, always giving second — and sometimes third — chances. Nobody was ever a stranger to her; she saw the good in everyone and treated all with compassion and respect.

Her grandchildren have endless memories of time spent with her — laying on her belly for gentle arm tickles, being spoiled with whatever food they craved at any hour, and never once hearing her say “no.” She loved fully and gave freely, making everyone around her feel cherished and special.

Later in life, she earned the nickname Ms. Hollywood — and rightly so. Even at 90, she never left home without her lashes, lipstick, a bit of rouge, and freshly polished nails. Getting her nails done was one of her favorite rituals — a small luxury that made her feel her best and perfectly suited her glamorous spirit. She loved to sing, dance, redecorate, and had the heart of a gypsy, moving from home to home with excitement and creativity, always making each new place her own. Shopping sprees and fast drives were her kind of fun, and no one could say no to her when tacos were on the menu.

She taught us that life is meant to be lived fully — with courage, kindness, and maybe just a little hairspray.

Gail is survived by her sisters, Joy Goodman, Joyce Daws, and Lois (Jerry) Gowler; her daughters, Frankie Sutton, Debra Hager, and Tammy Lawyer; her grandchildren, Elliot Ness, Paige (JD) Dirksen, Skyler (Matt) Westling, Jessica (Dustin) Mitchell, Marie Sutton, and John Sutton; and her great-grandchildren, Aidan, Tayler, Addy, Remy, Tilly, Makayla, and Maleyea.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Karen; sisters, Carol Nash and Cheryl Buller; and her parents, Charlotte Galusha and Daniel Hendrix.

Her spirit will live on in every song sung a little too loudly, every pie shared with love, and every burst of laughter around the table.

Fly high, Old Bird. We’ll miss you dearly, but we know you’re already dancing among the stars.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to

The Grace Space – Paul and Neva Grace Foundation

Lincoln, Nebraska