In the beautiful mountains of Asheville, N.C on July 12, 1945 a beautiful blue eyed baby girl entered the world. Her mother was Norma Jean and her father was Major Samuel A. Fortune. Her name was Patricia Gail. Gail was the oldest of three girls.
Gail graduated from Lee H Edwards High School in Asheville in 1963. She began her career at GMAC in 1971 as an account clerk. She worked many years, forging life long friendships and wonderful memories, before retiring from the company in 1999.
Gail was a single mom to Kimberly and Shane until her soul mate (Michael) entered the picture. It didn’t take much time for them to realize that life together was the only option.
Michael loved her children as if they were his own and in turn she loved him more than life itself.
Those two lovebirds were married April 2, 1982. Through the years they celebrated many milestones. Not one occasion ever went by without her soulmate thinking of her. She loved flowers and jewelry and always had a sweet, knowing smile that Michael had her something very special.
As the years passed and Kim and Shane became adults, Gail received her new title...Mamaw. That first little grandbaby was Brittany Gail, followed by Brandon, then Tanner Michael, then Casey, then Anna… How blessed Mamaw Gail was to have, not one, but two sweet great grandsons. Mason Michael and Jackson Reid were game changers. She had little ones in the house again to dote over.
Gail enjoyed her plants and had quite the green thumb. She appreciated the birds and her backyard critters, but not the snakes! She really liked Good Will and had a knack for finding something for everyone! She adored her husband, her family, her friends,those great grandbabies and her dogs. She savored a glass of wine and had a tall glass of tea with her always. She was a devoted Panther fan. She cheered for them regardless of their wins. In fact, if her heart and soul could have led them to a super bowl win, they would have won every year!
Gail is survived by her husband, Michael Allen; daughter, Kimberly Gail Brooks; son, Shane Michael Allen (Dana); 3 granddaughters, Brittany Brooks, Casey and Anna Allen; 2 grandsons, Brandon Brooks and Tanner Allen; 2 great grandsons, Mason Allen and Jackson Brooks; one sister, Mary Lou Stilwell (Joel); lifelong friend Annette McKinney (Bill); dogs, Marley and Maggie
Gail was preceded in death by her father, Sam; mother, Norma Jean; sister, Penny Jo; canine companion, Gizmo.
Gail was passionate about animal rescue, particularly dogs. She was always donating to help save a dog. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Tracy’s Paws Rescue or an animal rescue of your choosing.
A celebration of Gail’s life will take place on July 12, 2020 with a 1:00 pm reception and a 2:00 pm service at McEwen Funeral Service-Mint Hill Chapel.
Condolences may be offered online at www.mcewenminthillchapel.com.
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