Gayle Reynolds Heros

With deep love and profound sadness, we announce the passing of Gayle Reynolds Heros, who left us at the age of 76.

Gayle Reynolds Heros, 76, died peacefully in her home on December 24th after a day of being surrounded by her close family and friends. Gayle was a remarkable woman and deeply loved. Her entire family misses her dearly.

Born in 1949, Gayle was the only child of Marie and Raymond Reynolds. She graduated from East High School in 1967. After graduation, she earned her bachelor's degree in Education at Memphis State University. Go Tigers! It was there that she met the love of her life, Fernando Carlos Heros. They were married in 1971 while Fernando was attending The University of Tennessee College of Dentistry.

After Fernando graduated from dental school, they made their home in Memphis and raised their three daughters. Gayle was known for always being the first to sign up to be the room mother and for driving on every field trip in her fancy red car with her "car phone." In addition to being involved at school and school sports, Gayle was engaged in the community through Madonna Circle and Memphis Dental Auxiliary. She was also a fixture at the Racquet Club for many years, never missing a single swim meet.

A lifelong fan of the Memphis Tigers, Gayle brought enthusiasm and pride to every game… and she went to many, many games. Her love for her teams reflected the way she lived her life - with unwavering loyalty. When Gayle wasn't at Grizzlies or Tigers games in Memphis, she enjoyed spending time with Fernando at their cabin in PickWick and visiting their condo at Miramar Beach. Most nights, though, Gayle preferred sitting on the back patio with Fernando listening to Elvis and having a glass of "vino."

Gayle loved her family and was especially grateful that her daughters all lived close to home. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Gayle created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and the most memorable birthdays and holidays, especially Christmas. Christmas at the Heros home was legendary!

Never wanting to be the center of attention, Gayle lived a life defined by quiet strength through her battles with breast cancer and cervical cancer. Throughout her life and her battles with cancer, Gayle's faith remained steadfast. She prayed daily for her family and friends and was a devout attendee of St. Louis Catholic Church for over 50 years.

Gayle is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Fernando Carlos Heros, her three daughters, Christie McGee, Anita Heros, and Lisa Ellis (Scott), three grandchildren who called her "Nana" - Steven McGee, Madelyne McGee and Isabel Hoppal and her daily canine companion Sophie. She is also survived by her dear brothers-in-law Roberto Heros, MD (Debbie) and Ricardo Heros (Beba) and son-in-law Kelly McGee. She also leaves behind her best friend Ann Thompson, who will miss her dearly. Gayle is preceded in death by her parents Marie and Raymond Reynolds.