Gail Eileen Keen

Gail Eileen Keen, 64, passed away on October 20, 2026, following a long journey with multiple sclerosis. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will live on through her children and grandchildren.

Born on April 8, 1962, in Seattle, Washington, Gail was the daughter of Connie McGlothern and the late Douglas McGlothern. She grew up in West Seattle and attended West Seattle High School. She later pursued college studies with the hope of becoming a teacher, a dream interrupted by the progression of multiple sclerosis. Although she was unable to complete her degree, her love for children and education remained an important part of her life.

Gail married Del Keen on March 11, 1989, in White Salmon, Washington. Together, they settled in Yakima, where they raised their four children in their current home. That home became the backdrop for years of family memories.

Motherhood was one of Gail's greatest joys. When her daughter was identified as Deaf, Gail embraced an unfamiliar world with determination, learning sign language where she also became actively involved in the Deaf community.

Throughout her life, Gail held a variety of roles, bringing her heart and kindness to everything she did. While living in Seattle, she worked at Top Hat Glass as a secretary and later as a secretary for Seattle Guardian ad Litem office that represents the best interests of abused and neglected children. After moving to Vancouver, she provided childcare, continuing her lifelong love of working with children.

Her dedication to the Deaf community eventually led to a career as an educational sign language interpreter with the Yakima School District, primarily at Whitney Elementary School. Gail cared about the children she worked with, particularly those facing difficult circumstances. More than once, she wished she could simply bring a child home and give them the love and security they deserved.

That compassion was simply who Gail was. She had an enormous heart, a wonderful sense of humor, and a natural instinct to care for others. Her Christian faith guided the way she lived, whether she was organizing help for a family in need, volunteering her time, or making sure someone had a meal. She never needed a special occasion to show kindness.

Gail loved reading, tending to her flower beds, enjoying the great outdoors, and playing games with her family. She was especially close to her mother and siblings, and family was always at the heart of her life. She loved to laugh, she particularly enjoyed making the loudest belches and she had a way of making even ordinary moments memorable.

As multiple sclerosis gradually changed what Gail was able to do, her husband, Del, remained faithfully by her side. Through years of challenges and devoted caregiving, he continued to find ways to bring her comfort and make her smile. Their marriage was a testament to love, patience, and commitment.

Gail is survived by her devoted husband, Del Keen; her mother, Connie McGlothern; her sister, Linda McGlothern; her brother, Dean McGlothern; her daughter, Jamie McGlothern; her son, Ryan Keen, her stepsons, Allan Keen and Alex Keen; her grandchildren, Hadlee, Barrett and Brody, Draven and Nick; and one great grandson Desmond Keen.

A viewing will be held Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at noon at Keith & Keith Funeral Home, 902 W. Yakima Avenue, Yakima, Washington. Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. at West Hills Memorial Park, 11800 Douglas Road, Yakima, Washington.

Gail spent much of her life giving to others, and the love she gave will continue through her family and the many lives she touched. Though her journey was not always easy, she never stopped being deeply loved. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is finally at peace, free from the limitations of MS and dancing with the Lord she loved so dearly.

A little laughter, a lot of love. That was Gail.