Gail Diane D'Amato

Gail Diane (Ragan) D’Amato, born March 25, 1940, passed away on July 7, 2026, and is remembered with much love by her family and friends. Though she was born in Cleveland, Ohio, her family soon relocated to Hillside NJ, before settling in Bloomsbury NJ where she resided for many years. Later in life she moved to the greater Melbourne area of Florida to be nearer to and help care for her aging parents. Gail lived a life shaped by devotion to family and the simple joys that brought her happiness. Her sons share this tribute in celebration of a life well lived and lovingly shared. Gail graduated from Phillipsburg High School in 1958, a milestone that marked the beginning of her journey into adulthood. When her children were established in school, Gail worked for the Spadea Pattern Company as a seamstress. She later went on to build a career as a travel agent, a profession that reflected her connection to the world and her love of travel. Through her work, she was able to touch lives in ways that extended beyond the practical, helping others plan journeys that carried special meaning. Outside of her new career, Gail continued to enjoy sewing and crafting as well as taking advantage of travel opportunities afforded by her career choice. These interests were an important part of her life, offering her both creativity and inspiration. Whether working with her hands or setting out for new places, she embraced activities that brought beauty, purpose, and enjoyment. Her interests were a reflection of a life lived with curiosity and care. She is survived by her son, William Mattison and his partner Teresa; her son, Stephen Mattison; her granddaughter, Kathryn Weldon; and her four great-grandchildren, Jasmine, Adrian, Amara, and Avery. Each of them carries forward a part of her story, and their lives remain connected to hers through love, memory, and family bonds that endure beyond loss. Gail was preceded in death by a daughter Connie Lynn Mattison, Richard Mattison (the father of her children), Arthur D’Amato and her significant other, Glen Shands, whom Gail considered the love of her life. These relationships were part of the life she lived and the memories she held close. Her family honors all that she experienced and all that she meant to those who knew her. Though her passing leaves a deep absence, Gail’s life will be remembered for the warmth she brought to her family, the dedication she gave to her work, and the personal interests that made her uniquely herself. Her legacy lives on in the people who loved her, in the memories shared, and in the generations that follow her. She will be remembered with affection and gratitude for the life she lived and the love she gave.

There will be no formal service, but a Celebration of Life will be hosted by her son Stephen, at the home of Gail’s dear friend, Judy Busch in Palm Bay, FL. If you have not received a personal invitation and would like to come, please reach out to Stephen at [email protected]. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her name to either St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Mercy Ships.