Gayle Hancock Childress
Asheville - Gayle Hancock Childress, 85, avid hiker, gifted storyteller, and committed humanitarian, died peacefully on December 3, 2012. Quick to make friends, she formed diverse and devoted relationships for over 60 years in the Asheville community. Gayle participated in groups including Girl Scouts, Asheville Storytelling Circle, Bridging Differences, and two book clubs: American Association of University Women and Malaprop's. A certified volunteer at the Mediation Center for 12 years and leader of numerous civic organizations, she delighted in learning new things and enjoying people. Gayle was a board member and volunteer at The Rathbun Center Hospitality House.
Born in Springfield, Missouri, she grew up in many places around the country but found her home in North Carolina. A devoted Tarheel and cheerleader for Charlie "Choo Choo" Justice, Gayle met her husband of 48 years, Gran, at UNC. She taught at Durham Academy and Dorminy Dance Studio before they moved to Asheville in 1960 and immersed themselves in the community. They were proud founding members of Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC) and worked to protect the mountains they loved. Gran passed away in 1998.
Known as Mimi, Gayle delighted in her family and is survived by her children and their spouses Susan and Randy McCracken of Asheville, Leesa and Todd Sluder of Mooresville, NC, and Mark and Kate Childress of Crozet, VA, and her grandchildren Morgan Sluder, Mason Sluder, Kristen and husband Micah Wohlford, and Scott Frankel.
A member of Central United Methodist Church for over 50 years, and one of the founders of Stephen Ministry, Gayle served in many capacities in the life of the church. A memorial service will be held at Central UMC on Friday, December 7 at 2:00 p.m. The family will receive friends immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to SAHC, The Rathbun Center, or Central UMC.
Morris Funeral Home, 304 Merrimon Avenue is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be sent through the website www.morrisfamilyfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
I was saddened to see this as I researched friends and neighbors from long ago.A wonderful,gracious lady who always made me feel at home at your house.Best wishes to you all.
John Randolph
Friend
July 24, 2017
Susan, Leesa and Mark
My prayers have been with you this week. I am sorry I wasn't able to see you! I loved growing up with your family...your mother treated me like one of her own. She was an amazing woman and an example of how to live life. Love to all of you, Valleri
Valleri Nivens Harris
December 9, 2012
All of the Derrough family sends out our prayers and thoughts. Gayle was such a generous and kind person.
Charlotte Derrough
December 7, 2012
My life has been enriched having known your mother. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you.
Judi Robinson
December 7, 2012
Dear Susan, Leesa,and Mark, We are away and won't be able to attend the services for your wonderful mother. She was a dear friend and an inspiration to so many. I remember her enthusiasm and her deep faith. Jerry joins me in sending you love and sympathy.
Rosemary Crow
December 6, 2012
Leesa - I'm glad you got to spend the summer with your Mom. She sounds like an unusual and interesting woman - just as you are. I treasure my Mom and every minute I spend with her. Please know I am thinking of you and your family at this time. Anne
Anne Vulcano
December 6, 2012
What a generous lady. We wish we could have gotten to know her better. She will be greatly missed by all her loved ones and the many many people she touched. We are so sorry ...
Warmly,
Carol Brothers & Fred Klappenberger
December 6, 2012
Prayers are with your family in this time of great loss.
Roy Scott
December 6, 2012
Girl Scouts Carolinas Peaks to Piedmont sends its sincere condolences to the family of Gayle. As you celebrate her wonderful life and the memories you that you have, know that we are thinking of you and are proud to count Gayle as a Girl Scout alumna.
Bess Newton
December 6, 2012
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Morris Funeral & Cremation Care - Asheville304 Merrimon Avenue, Asheville, NC 28801
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