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Jennifer Gale Obituary
Gale, who was homeless and was a candidate in the upcoming mayoral race, was found sleeping outside the First English Lutheran Church at 3001 Whitis Avenue by a worker about 6 a.m. today, Fire Department spokeswoman Michelle DeCrane said.
The worker returned about an hour later, thought Gale might be in distress, and called 911, DeCrane said.
Austin firefighters at a nearby station responded and began performing CPR, DeCrane said.
Gale routinely attended Austin City Council meetings, county commissioners court and school board meeting, often presenting her political arguments in song. On Tuesday, she sang “Silent Night” at a city health and human services subcommittee meeting.
Memories and Condolences
for Jennifer Gale
653 Entries
August 16, 2012
I wish I could of had the oppertunity to have meet you.
Bobbie
Joanne Freund
May 28, 2010
Hey, Jennifer,
Just happened to be thinking about you today. Wish you had been elected mayor and maybe something could have been done to help all of us ladies over 40 find a job and affordable housing.
Still missing you after all these years...
JR
March 25, 2010
Shortest verse in the Bible: AND JESUS WEPT.
I did not cry because I know that you are in a beautiful,warm, happy place now....
" I was glad when they said unto me,Let us go to the House of the Lord."
March 9, 2010
"Your candle burned out before the legend ever did.."
March 9, 2010
Siempre Fi, Marine!
March 9, 2010
JESUS DIED SO THAT WE COULD LIVE WITH HIM FOREVER
March 9, 2010
May Jesus Greet You and Say Good Job, Good and Faithful Servant
March 9, 2010
Blessed Are They Who Mourn For They Shallt Be Comforted
March 9, 2010
May Jesus Guide You and Lead You Home
March 9, 2010
Joe Anonymous
March 9, 2010
You have been gone for us over a year, dearest friend and I still remember you and miss you. I lost the Internet Service Provider or I would have written something a lot closer to the day and month you joined the angels. I hope you are happy in Heaven. I loved you!
"Lola" Wallis
June 14, 2009
As Jennifer would say, KEEP AUSTIN, AUSTIN.
JB
June 14, 2009
My girlfriend and I had known Jennifer in Dallas for a couple of years,where she frequently hung at the Miami Subs restaurant,in the mid 90’s,and we later ran into her ,though only a handful of times,in Austin,where we have since relocated, 9 years ago.We were always cordial to her.She did have a lightness to her personality, and there was an intangible something to her personality that was memorable.She once in Dallas spoke French to MY GIRLFRIEND AND OFFERED TO TUTOR HER IN THE LANGUAGE(as my girlfriend had an interest in learning it),WHICH SHE NEVER FOLLOWED UP ON. BUT THERE YOU HAVE IT,SOME THOUGHTS…
Paige
June 14, 2009
“Her favorite memory, Morrison said, was a Real Estate Council of Austin election forum when Gale “led about 500 suits and their guests at the Four Season’s ballroom in a rendition of “You’ve lost that lovin’ feeling.””
That is one of my favorite memories, as well. Jennifer not only crossed gender lines. She successfully crossed economic lines to put the communities needs and issues in front of EVERYONE who is involved in the community. No one was too good or too bad to be considered worthy of a seat at the table. That is why she
is so well recognized and so well loved.
Juan Juliano
June 14, 2009
Toby Futrell’s comment in todays Statesman says everything you want to know about Jennifer: “She fought for her own dignity and her own identity. She stood up for herself” and the greater good of the community, I might add. I met up with her at this years veterans parade downtown to discover she was preparing for another mayoral run and told her I will support her and I WAS planning on voting for her the first go-round. If you are not familiar with Jennifer, it’s more than likely you don’t have the TW access channel, your loss. She(he)was genuinely a caring person, a great loss and she will be missed.
Ernie
June 14, 2009
I am wondering how you are doing.
Good thing you aren't here today because it was over 100 degrees Fahrenheit today and it looks like more of the same tomorrow.
God bless.
Wally S
June 13, 2009
Sleep well, beautiful Princesa!
Judy Machanca
June 13, 2009
We would see her wandering around town always cheerful and upbeat and poised and beautiful.
Who knows what tears she shed and how frightened and lonely she was when she was alone -- sleeping on the front steps of a church --getting wet when it rained and cold when it was freezing and she died just before Christmas.
I miss her and I hope that she has a better life in Heaven.
Loren Stephens
June 13, 2009
Please pray for Jennifer.
Mrs. Gonzales
June 13, 2009
The last time I saw Jennifer, she was in the Walgreen's Pharmacy off of Guadalupe and Lamar, the 24 hour one. She had put her roller case in the shopping cart and she was looking at cough drops and cough syrup.
I noticed then that she had a hacking cough and I asked her if she had gone to the VA to see about it.
She assured me that she didn't want to take the time away from people who needed to see the doctors there more than she did. She was so generous and kind.
I told her that she had better go and make an appointment because I had lost a husband with congestive heart failure and I had a cousin who coughed in the same way she did and I did not want her to be lost as well...
She told me that she just had a cold. But it sounded a lot worse than that... and that is what I told her. I reminded her that Stephen F. Austin, the Texas pioneer had died of bronchial pneumonia and that maybe she needed to come home with me and my family would look after her until she could get an appointment at the VA but she reassured me that she was OK.
And then, two weeks later she was dead suddenly. As all congestive heart failure patients leave us --suddenly, unexpectedly...
There is nothing more I can do except pray for her and if you were her friend too, I ask you to please pray for her.
I light a candle that perhaps she will see from her distant star.
We love you, Jennifer, wherever you are.
Jaimie B
June 13, 2009
"Nothing is impossible, as long as you wish it with all your heart."
– Paulo Coelho
Walker
June 13, 2009
We are each of us angels with only one wing. And we can only fly embracing each other."
– Luciano de Crescenzo
Lincoln
June 13, 2009
Your memory lives on in my heart.
"Buffy" St. James
June 13, 2009
What a sad, beautiful and tragic life!
She surely had family somewhere, didn't she?
I am wiping my eyes and wondering who else will be left homeless to pass away like she did? It is almost impossible for a middle aged woman to find a job!
God bless her and all of the older women like her.
Andrew
June 13, 2009
It is like walking down an empty street and autumn leaves are blowing from the trees. Guess they aren't needed anymore.
And it was only in December and probably the straw folk angel they put for you on the Homeless Memorial Tree has already been blown from the tree, just like the autumn leaves.
I miss you, my friend.
A lot of my other friends are becoming like the autumn leaves only instead of dropping to the ground and being lost, they are being carried by the winds to Heaven.
And they will live on, if only in the memories of those who loved them.
I miss them.
I miss you.
God Bless you.
Frank
June 10, 2009
this is all so sad, what is our world coming to?
She needed a home, she needed a job and she needed someone to care about her.
And we must never forget that she was a US Marine!
Siempre Fi!
Stella
June 10, 2009
Jennifer Gale came to Austin the same year I did: 1997.
Monday night, we crossed MLK opposite each other and she offered me a friendly "Hello!" even though we'd never met. I can't believe she's gone.
Jennifer will be greatly missed by Austin.
Wanda F
June 10, 2009
Jennifer Gale was a friendly kind-hearted well-liked person. A lot of people are going out of their way here to leaving belated comments about a good person who has died, A very good person.
So many tributes for a person they did not even know as expressed by dozens of commenters here. We can only hope there is a special place in Heaven for people who too their time to speak of the dead in such kind ways, and especially of people they never even met.
Jennifer will be missed by many in Austin and in Dallas. RIP Jennifer...my thoughts and prayers to your family and friends.
Paul
June 10, 2009
Abou Ben Adhem (may his tribe increase!)
Awoke one night from a deep dream of peace,
And saw, within the moonlight in his room,
Making it rich, and like a lily in bloom,
An Angel writing in a book of gold:
Exceeding peace had made Ben Adhem bold,
And to the Presence in the room he said,
"What writest thou?" The Vision raised its head,
And with a look made of all sweet accord
Answered, "The names of those who love the Lord."
"And is mine one?" said Abou. "Nay, not so,"
Replied the Angel. Abou spoke more low,
But cheerily still; and said, "I pray thee, then,
Write me as one who loves his fellow men."
The Angel wrote, and vanished. The next night
It came again with a great wakening light,
And showed the names whom love of God had blessed,
And, lo! Ben Adhem's name led all the rest!
-- James Leigh Hunt
Go with God, Jennifer.
Dana Urban
June 10, 2009
dazzling urbanite | 6 months ago
Sorry to hear about Jennifer. She always added to the political discussion about our beloved city. I am also grateful for her service to our country.
Alitsa
June 10, 2009
litsa | 6 months ago
Jennifer was a wonderful, warm hearted person. She was so genuine, really part of the community. Even though she didn't become mayor of Austin, she was a leader. I'm grateful to her and people like her that shape our culture, remind us to be caring, and remind us of our blessings.
Angelo Viconti
June 10, 2009
Thought I would let you know that Lee Leffingwell won the Austin mayor's race and we have a huge budgetary problem because the economy is so bad.
I was wanting Carole Keeton Strayhorn and there was this Brewster McCracklin but he conceded.
The race was too crowded and I am not sure how you would have done.
We can wonder and we can dream, can't we.
Erin
April 28, 2009
Dear Jennifer, You earned your wings when you are with us, and now we hope you are watching over us as Austin's guardian angel. We miss you.
Anonymous
March 31, 2009
Jennifer,
in case you don't remember me,I was helping you write one of your campaign speeches and revise your mayoral race platform in the Travis County Law Library.
I wanted to let you know that my cousin died Saturday, March 28, 2009 and in case he is lost there, please show him around.
I miss talking to you.
You who consoled so many during tragic times like this by just sitting and listening and praying with them, I sure could use your advice.
Be sure to welcome him and show him around. He didn't know you but I am sure you will make him at home.
I lit a candle for you and I will light one for him.
God bless.
wallis
March 14, 2009
Huge Dreams, big hopes, Huge heart!
Jennifer was larger than life.
We miss her.
Domingo
March 14, 2009
It's been nearly three months and you really are gone.
We were sitting around here talking about you and glad we are not outside in the cold and the rain.
We are also glad you aren't out there either.
I hope God blesses you beyond measure to make up for the sort of life you lived here.
Good night, Jennifer.
Deniece
March 14, 2009
They took you back to Wisconsin, that's what I heard when I came back and found that you were gone.
I think they took a bit of my heart back with them.
You will always be in the hearts and memories of those you tried to help and make our lives a lot cheerier and happier.
And wherever you are, I want you to know that we still care and miss you.
God bless you, Jennifer. I know you would rather be running for a public office and maybe they have some up there... You can say HI to Jake Pickle and all of the other great populists and New Dealers too.
I will pray for you. You pray for me and maybe we'll meet again.
G.M.
March 2, 2009
Once upon a time, there was a time of year when downtown bus riders in Austin,TX listened to Jennifer Gale singing Christmas carols. No more sweet fa-la-la's from Jennifer. We should have sung along
Travis R.
March 2, 2009
Ever the underdog, Jennifer Gale nevertheless drew several thousand supporters to the voting booths at each race during her ten-year quest for higher office. A local figure as recognizable and wholly "Austin, Texas" her adopted city, she will be missed by many of her friends, supporters, associates and whoever knew her.
To know you was to love you, Jennifer.
Lyle
March 2, 2009
It has been very cold today and the wind cuts right through you.
Like the day of your memorial service near Town Lake and they put a straw folk angel in your name on the Homeless Memorial Tree.
I don't see you as being homeless because you walked with an Angel.
And the Angel took you Home.
Uma
March 2, 2009
I am looking forward to the day when I have a home too.
And all of us can sit around over a cup of nice, warm chocolate of coffee or herbal tea or Postem and discuss elections won and lost and the fun of the campaign.
Politics is the spice of ife.
And I wish you could be here to run this spring of 2009.
Carol Keeton Strayhorn who used to be state comptroller is running and she really is "one tough grandmother."
You might have got a place on her staff is she had won.
You and Ms. Strayhorn and former Governor Ann Richards -- all wonderful ladies who were Texas tough!
Thinking about you, Jennifer and wishing you were here.
Kelli
March 2, 2009
All of Texas should recognize Jennifer by insuring where it humanly possible all homeless people will have safe, welcoming housing.
"Kat"
March 2, 2009
I went to see the "elect Jennifer Gale" site today and it is still the same only now, it is raining angels on your site--- beautiful little angels that someone added after you passed away. They have trumpets.
They must be heralding your arrival in Heaven where your real home is and where we all must go.
I hope you are happy now. You deserved it.
Pray for me that I do well in school.
You encouraged me to go and I did thanks to you.
I send a kiss to you somewhere in the cosmos, my dear friend!
Gina H.
March 2, 2009
Jennifer:
Did you know that you are in Wikipedia now?
There are a lof of film stars, executives, important people in there so maybe your good deeds and enormous sacrifices for us have finally been acknowledged.
Here is the article, it is public domain so anyone can use it.
"
Jennifer Lauren Gale (1960 - December 17, 2008) was an American perennial political candidate in Texas. Gale was a native of Wisconsin and a Democrat. Jennifer claimed to be a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. Gale gained fame in her adopted hometown of Austin, Texas for repeatedly running, or attempting to run, for multiple offices including congress, governor, mayor, city council, and the school board. Gale often attended municipal hearings, forums, and meetings in Austin where she was known for presenting arguments in song. Gale planned to run for Mayor of Austin in May 2009.
Gale, a resident of Austin precinct 147, was one of a number of well known Austin eccentrics which include homeless icon Leslie Cochran, who also has run for municipal office in Austin, Texas.
Gale appeared before the Austin City Council on November 20, 2008 and warned about the number of homeless that had died on the city's streets. She also sang "I'll be home for Christmas" and declared that 2009 would be "Hug A Homeless Person" year. "
On December 17, 2008, according to the Austin Fire Department, Jennifer Gale was found dead outside a University of Texas area church where she regularly slept.
Gale's first run for elective office came during her bid for Austin mayor in 1997. Jennifer earned only 420 votes (0.67%), but over time grew increasingly well known and improved her percentages with each race until she was consistently garnering a percentage in the range of 5% to 9%.
Gale received her first public endorsement from Bicycle Austin in November 2001 in her run for Austin Mayor,and Bicycle Austin also endorsed her in May 2005 and May 2006..
In 2004, Gale shocked the Austin political establishment by earning 38.7% of the vote against incumbent school board president Doyle Valdez for the At-Large Position 8 seat of the Austin Independent School District, garnering the highest percent share in her electoral bids.
In recent elections, Jennifer received 9.3% of the vote in 2005 for Austin City Council Place 4,6.7% of the vote in 2006 for Austin Mayor[623663120866401
, and 0.7% of the vote in 2007 for Dallas Mayor.In her most recent election, Gale placed fourth among six candidates for the 2008 Austin City Council Place 4 election, earning 1,951 votes or 5.8% of the total cast.
Gale filed her intent but ultimately did not gain ballot access to run as an independent candidate against Republican congressman Lamar Smith in the 2008 November general election for Texas congressional district 21.
Gale filed her intention in late 2008 to run for Mayor of Austin in May 2009.
Electoral History
1997 Mayor of Austin
4th of 8 candidates. 420 votes (0.67%)
1998 Austin I.S.D. School Board Vice President
2nd of 2 candidates. (34%)
1999 Austin City Council Place 4
9th of 10 candidates. 691 votes (2.07%)
2000 Mayor of Austin
4th of 4 candidates. 1,244 votes (3.51%)
2001 Mayor of Austin (special)
5th of 8 candidates. 1,538 votes (2.57%)
2002 Austin City Council Place 1
5th of 5 candidates. 2,111 (5.41%)
2003 Mayor of Austin
6th of 9 candidates. 1,077 (1.83%)
2004 Austin I.S.D. School Board Vice President
2nd of 2 candidates. 11,735 (38.7%)
2005 Austin City Council Place 4
3rd of 5 candidates. 5,315 (9.29%)
2006 Mayor of Austin
3rd of 3 candidates. 3,560 (6.7%)
2007 Mayor of Dallas
9th of 11 candidates. 554 votes (0.78%)
2008 Austin City Council Place 4
4th of 6 candidates. 1,953 (5.84%)
Political platform and views
2008 Jennifer Gale Campaign Sign at the Austin intersection of MLK and Guadalupe.Some Austinites viewed Gale as the personification of the famous "Keep Austin Weird" campaign. Gale embraced that slogan and ran for office with the slogan of "Keep Austin, Austin," which she modified for her 2007 run for mayor of Dallas using the slogan "Keep Dallas, Dallas."
In 2004, Gale was challenged by fellow mayoral candidate and popular Leslie Cochran to a debate at the University of Texas student union on the topic of who would best represent the homeless. Gale declined to participate unless given $50 worth of food from the Wendy's restaurant inside the union. "Dunlavy", the event organizer, declined.
Gale claimed in 2008 that if elected to the Austin City Council she would get a National Football League team to move to Austin.
Death
It was reported by the Austin American Statesman that Gale had been found dead outside a church at 6:00 am on December 17, 2008. An autopsy later revealed that she had died from heart disease probably exacerbated by sleeping outside in near-freezing temperatures."
An unstated number of Austin politicians and politicos have expressed sorrow at her passing. The Burnt Orange Report blog posted a reflective essay on her life along with photos and a plea to support homeless urban persons."
JENNIFER,YOU MADE THE BIG TIME.
I can imagine you chuckiling from Heaven and looking down from a cloud on me as I write this for you.
Pray for us, Jennifer...
Lydia
March 2, 2009
I saw her often in the Union at UT and some of her speaking at the city hall. I am sure she will be missed and I'm sad that she passed away as she did.
Christopher
March 2, 2009
Jennifer's support and excitement to be a part of the UT community was truly inspiring. In fact, the only time I have seen her not wearing a University of Texas sweatshirt was when I ran into her on her way to attend a football game at the University of Wisconsin. Our conversation on the street that day made me comfortable with Madison as my new home. She truly was a fit ambassador for the University of Texas and for Austin.
Valerie Romness, Street Advocate
March 2, 2009
Jennifer Gale had a beautiful service December 19th, 2008
MEMORIAL SERVICE PLANNED for SUNDAY:
Sunday 11 am
Memorial Tree and plaque @ south shores of Lady Bird Lake.
Near So 1st St, just west of the gazebo.
We heard stories and cherished Jennifer.
ABRIL
March 2, 2009
Once I was on the bus...it was a Sunday morning. She was making a big deal about letting the children take the seats. It was a nice thing to see someone do.
Reyna Ruiz
March 2, 2009
Jennifer:
I am encouraging every one to donate in rememberance of you!
We are so fortunate to be able to stay warm during these cold temperatures, however, there are some who are not as lucky. If you have any extra coats, sweaters, scarf's, blankets, and or anything that can keep someone warm, please bring them with you to Austin City Hall (City Clerk's Office). I am hoping to begin an organization, L.O.N.G.C.O.A.T.S - Leading Organization to Never Going Cold Over Austin Temperatures , so that every year, we can raise coats and winter clothes for those in need.
Anything you can supply is greatly appreciated.
301 West 2nd Street 78701 974-2527 or 974-2210 we are the only office on the first floor :)
We will take what we collect to Homeless Shelters around Austin. I know this is short notice, but we don't have much time beforethe weather drops again. Thank you so much for all your help!
-Reyna Ruiz
Andrew R.
March 2, 2009
Jennifer!
I came back here today and I looked for you in all the old, familiar places and I was told that you had passed away in near-freezing weather on the steps of a Church here in town.
At least you picked a good spot for the Angels to come and get you.
They had a very good memorial service for you, I was told, and it was so COLD out there!
We need a safe place for ALL homeless people in Austin to stay.
You wouldn't be alone now,Jennifer. There are a lot of formerly middle class and up people who have lost their jobs and can't pay their mortgages and things are looking really bad here.
I bet they remember how it was when they were unemployed amd couldn't get a job through no fault of their own and how scared they were and how cold they were and how much they wished they had a home, any home, even a tent in the woods...
I bet that with more and more people homeless that something will be done.
You wouldnot have been alone anymore. You could have helped them and shown them how to stay alive.
I miss you, pretty lady.
You were smart, resourceful, funny, kind, gentle and a very firey advocate for the lost sheep such as me.
Rest easy, Corporal Gale.
roger
February 22, 2009
I am glad that your book is still here on line so we will be able to tell you how the Austin Mayor's race came out.
You would be amazed who is running...Let me tell you I am afraid that the election has already been decided but will let you know later.
You would have been a great Mayor!
IAN PAUL
February 22, 2009
Jennifer would have seen the humor in the Wall Street debacle and with her here, we would not have been as afraid as we are now.
May God guide her steps in Heaven!
Walton
February 22, 2009
I have a place to sleep tonight and I have a sack of tortilla chips and some oleo from a restaurant somebody gave me. I guess I am pretty well off tonight.
If I could find Jennifer, I would share this with her but she left us around Christmas time. Has it really been that long?
She is missed and life is just that much grayer and sad.
She gave us hope.
We all miss her.
Anonymous Friend of Jennifer
February 22, 2009
STILL MISSING YOU AND HEARING THAT SONG FROM THE "TITANIC" FILM IN MY HEAD...
"EVERY NIGHT IN MY DREAMS, I SEE YOU, I SEE YOU...BUT THE HEART WILL GO ON..."
DON'T SEE HOW SOMETIMES.
It's getting rather interesting economically here.
I hope you are happy now and that you like your new home, your halo and your wings. I know that you are who you have always wanted to be there --happy, singing, enjoying beautiful flowers and dancing on the clouds.
I miss you a lot.
Al
February 9, 2009
I thought about you a lot today.
I miss you a lot and remember you quite fondly but I think you are much happier where you are. It is raining and cold tonight...
Nothing has changed here since you left and I don't think it ever will... I remember a song once and the last lines were ..."and the Moscow nights go on forever..." Well, that's like it is here, life goes on...
Please pray for your friends here who are left behind to carry on.
Remember us kindly.
Sara
January 20, 2009
Always upbeat and positive. I will miss her light.
Ross
January 19, 2009
My friend Jennifer was an unclaimed treasure.
She would have been a great, no-nonsense mother who would have made sure her children were brought up with the good, old-fashioned traditional values in a Christian home!
But she never had the chance and Heaven obviously had other plans.
She had a Bible.
Claudia
January 19, 2009
A PRAYER FOR JENNIFER,
LORD JESUS,
Help me to serve as You served.
Help me to love as You loved.
In my weaknesses, make me strong in serving others that my heart may be transformed
by Your inexpressible Divine Mercy.
Amen.
Selma
January 19, 2009
Almighty God and Father,
i offer You my humble prayers
and ask You to send Your Holy Spirit upon me to enlighten and guide me as a retrace
the footsteps of Your Son Jesus as He proclaimed your goodness and mercy even unto death.
Help me to always walk in the light of Your Kingdom ,so that I may reflect Your constant and everlasting love.
Grant me the grace to follow Your way in all things, and open my heart to generosity, courage and patience, so that darkness may never obscure the path before me.
Amen.
frank
January 19, 2009
I hope that your family sees this guestbook and knows how much you meant to so many people!
HAYLEY
January 19, 2009
AT LEAST YOU MADE PLANS TO DO MORE OF WHAT YOU LOVED DOING AND YOU HAD THE BEST HOPE FOR THE FUTURE WHEN YOU LET US.
I TRY TO FIND A REASON WHY YOU HAD TO LEAVE US SO SOON BUT I GUESS I WILL NEVER KNOW.
I DO KNOW I MISS YOU. WE ALL MISS YOU AND WE WILL PRAY FOR YOU.
owen
January 19, 2009
thinking of you often with deep regret for what could have been, jennifer.
DEBORAH
January 19, 2009
WHERE I GO YOU CANNOT GO BUT I GO TO PREPARE A PLACE FOR YOU.
LESTER
January 19, 2009
YOUR SMILE IS HARD TO FORGET.
I MISS YOU.
Santos Rios
January 18, 2009
What is heaven like, Marine Corporal Jennifer Gale?
Is it true the streets are paved of gold?
And diamonds sparkle in the water?
Do angels guide you by the hand?
To enter in this promised land.
The "Book of Life", does it exist?
And does God really keep a list?
Of all the good and bad we do.
And tear it up in front of you.
Have all your tears been wiped away?
And joy placed in your heart to stay.
Does Jesus come and talk with you?
As you walk in gardens of colored hues.
Another thing that I had heard them say,
That in Heaven there is no night or day.
Jesus is all the light we need.
And your days are filled with sweet memories.
Sometimes, do you stop and smile,
And send a hug or song once in awhile.
To ease the pain in your best friend's heart,
You know I never wanted us to part.
It's said one day you'll take my hand,
And lead me to the Promised Land.
When that day comes, I want you to know,
Never ever again will I let you go.
I love you more than words can say,
My prayers will be answered that
"One Sweet Day".
Til we meet again!
Cassie
January 18, 2009
As the many stars that twinkle
throughout the heavens above;
You will forever be a bright reminder
Of what it truly means to love.
You are dearly missed and greatly loved...
Angelus
January 18, 2009
In the beautiful skies of Heaven you are only limited by your imagination with your new angel wings!
Fly, my dear friend, fly!,
To faraway galaxies on high.
To holy places where angels sing,
Around the throne of God our King.
Fly to the end of the rainbow my friend,
Is there really a pot of gold at its end?
Do the clouds taste like cotton candy over there?
Do the raindrops smell like blossoms fair?
When you left us here a week ago,
We told you "to fly, go ahead go."
I am glad you did not suffer,
But letting you go was even tougher.
Love was the key to setting you free,
No matter how painful it was to be.
I knew in my heart you wanted to go,
Jesus was calling, the night was aglow.
With angels just waiting to take you on high,
Go my dear friend, go on to fly.
We'll always love you and forever you'll be,
Alive in our hearts and our memory.
When I see one perfect star in the black night,
I know that it's you going upon a flight.
Saying "I love you all and now I am free.
to follow my dreams and my destiny".
Gordon Little
January 18, 2009
God's Garden
God looked around His garden
And He found an empty place.
He then looked down upon,
this earth,
And He saw your tired face.
He put His arms around you
And lifted you to rest.
God's garden most beautiful,
He always takes the best.
He knew that you were suffering,
He knew you you were in pain.
He knew that you would never
Get well on earth again.
He saw that the road was getting rough
And the hills were hard to climb
So He closed your weary eyelids,
And whispered "Peace be thine."
It broke our hearts to lose you,
But you didn't go alone.
For part of us went with you
The day God called you home.
You left us beautiful memories,
Your love is still our guide,
And though we cannot see you,
You are always by our side.
Our family chain is broken,
And nothing seems the same,
But as God calls us one by one,
The chain will link again.
Mary-Martha
January 18, 2009
Holy Spirit
Holy Spirit come to me
Light the way for me to see.
Fill my heart with rays of hope
Show me how to learn to cope.
With wars and hunger and fear and strife,
And all the hardships through out life.
Teach me how to love again
And how to teach my fellowmen.
Guide me with your understanding
So I may love unselfishly and undemanding.
Please tell Him for me
How close to Him I long to be
And when to Him one day I'll come
I'll kneel and say "Thy will be done."
Voices from a Distant Star
January 18, 2009
Let Go and Let God
As children bring their broken toys,
with tears for us to mend.
I brought my broken dreams to GOD
because He was my friend.
But then, instead of leaving Him
in peace to work alone,
I hung around and tried to help
with ways that were my own.
At last I snatched them back and cried:
"How can you be so slow?"
"My child," He said, "What could I do?"
"You never did let go!"
Anonymous
Dewayne
January 18, 2009
Hear my voice when I call, O LORD;
be merciful to me and answer me.
My heart says of you, "Seek his face!"
Your face, LORD, I will seek.
Do not hide your face from me,
do not turn your servant away in anger;
you have been ny helper.
Do not reject me or forsake me,
O God my Savior.
Though my father and mother forsake me,
the LORD will receive me.
Psalm 27:7-10
Paula
January 18, 2009
An Angel took you sadly from the ones who loved you so.
He looked at your pale, still face and said "It's time to go."
But on the other side of that dark and fearful door,
The Master stood waiting to hold you in His arms once more.
He touched you with His nail scarred hands,
And life began to flow.
He wiped away all the tears,
And your face began to glow.
And I know that we shall meet again.
Happy Eternity, Jennifer.
Friend
January 18, 2009
Four angels by my chair.
Four angels 'round my hair.
Two to watch and two to pray
And one to bear my soul away.
Lyle.7
January 18, 2009
I know I can never forget you,
because I don't want to forget.
Your Friend, James
January 18, 2009
Far above the earth and skies.
Where your spirit testifies.
Of the grace, mercy and tender love
Of our heavenly father in heaven above.
To pray for you despite the pain,
To tell the world, our God reigns.
He reigns in life and He reigns in death.
And I will believe with my last breath
My spirit shall always proclaim
OUR GOD REIGNS
And He will bless you, Jennifer
Francisco & Catarina
January 18, 2009
We prayed for you in church this morning, Jennifer.
I lit two votive candles for you too and we had a Perpetual Mass said for you too.
I hope God will bless you and all the things you did for the poor people even though you were so poor yourself..
We loved you
Thalia
January 18, 2009
John 11:35
And Jesus wept.
The shortest verse in the Bible.
Maria
January 18, 2009
Jennifer was my friend.
I look to the sky and I wanted to ask WHY did God take her?
WHY?
The streets are darker, colder and meaner.
And I cry.
BUDDY
January 18, 2009
I MISS YOUR SMILE AND YOUR KINDNESS AND CONCERN TO EVERYBODY.
NOBODY CARED ABOUT PEOPLE LIKE ME EXCEPT YOU.
I HOPE GOD WILL REWARD YOU FOR ALL THE GOOD THINGS YOU DID FOR PEOPLE.
I CAN ONLY IMAGINE WHAT YOU COULD HAVE DONE FOR EVERYBODY IF YOU HAD EVER BEEN ELECTED.
Joe Girgenti
January 17, 2009
I will miss you my controversial, opinionated friend who cared more for others than you did your own life.
God shall reward you.
mina
January 17, 2009
May you find the peace that eluded you in this life.
Joaquin
January 17, 2009
Bless you, Jennifer.
You meant the world to many people who remain in the shadows, under bridges, sleeping parked vehicles in dumpsters and in places where life is short and dangerous. Hunger and death are ever present and FEAR is everywhere. You made us smile.
More importantly, you gave us HOPE.
Always a Marine
January 17, 2009
Rest in Peace, Jennifer. You served your fellow man well. Semper Fi!
Baeza
January 17, 2009
I went to your My Space.com page Jennifer because I don't kn ow how much longer it is going to be there before they take it down.
Everything you told me about yourself is right there.
I'm not sure you were six foot five because I was able to look you in the eye and I am five foot eight but no matter.
I now know that you were from Madison, Wisconsin and your last name really was Gale.
I learned a lot about you in your own words:
General: If there is an spot in your city government I am gonna run for it. I also enjoy popcorn, free sandwiches from 7-11, and talking peoples ears off on the bus about why they should vote for me.
Music: I love Aretha Franklin and Queen. I don't really get to listen to much music since I am currently houseless. I also enjoy smooth jazz.
Movies Star Wars, any Grisham political thrillers, and Mrs. Doubtfire, Tootsie.
Television Whatever is on the TV's at the Dobie Mall food court.
Heroes Ice-T, John F. Kennedy, and FDR
Zodiac Sign: Virgo
Smoke / Drink: No / No
Education: Some college
Occupation: Politician
Income: Less than $30,000
WhoVoted
I love running for public office. I have sixteen years experience of running for public office. I have yet to win any position I have run for but I still remain optimistic. Currently I am running for Mayor in Austin Texas.
"I want to be your public servant"
Last Login: 10/8/2008
And her last log out was for eternity: 12/17/2008
Roxanne
January 17, 2009
I’m so sad to hear about Jennifer. She was fun to watch on the local talk shows. I’m going to be sad all day and trying to think of what I can do to make a difference so this won't happen to another older woman again.
RODNEY
January 17, 2009
I HOPE YOU SPENT THE HOLIDAYS WITH SOMEONE YOU LOVED,JENNIFER.
LILA
January 17, 2009
I found an old video posted on the Internet of Jennifer Gale singing at the last Austin City Council meeting what was to be here last song, "Silent Night."
I started crying in spite of myself.
I cried for the Christmas that she never knew she wouldn't see as she sang.
I cried for the extremely sad circumstances how she died all alone and how she could probably see holiday lights but knew that they weren't for her --always out of reach, just like a home and a career of her own.
And how many other middle aged, homeless ladies, no longer wanted will die in the same way because they are no longer wanted! even unwanted don't die like this, in the street..
I WATCHED THE VIDEO AGAIN.
Bless her heart. That video breaks mine. Not a mean bone in her body. Just trying to make the world a better place the best way she knew how.
Will
January 17, 2009
I have read many comments regarding Ms. Gale in the Austin American Statesman and even at Dallas Morning News online. She was a unique person with the courage of her convictions.
She was a middle-aged, homeless woman
She had the courage to choose to be the person she wanted to be, with full knowledge that society would not handle it well. Sadly, most people do not have that amount of courage to pursue his/her true passion in life for one reason or the other. Before you know it we are all saddled with responsibility of adulthood and the trappings of being normal, and even though sometimes miserable, more comforting somehow because it is familiar and secretly you know everyone else suffers in silence with you.
In the wake of the tragic death of Ms. Gale I was hoping that I could see some decency, respect, and compassion, shown to her in the tragic circumstances of her death especially for a soul that witnessed very little of this during its 47 years on earth.
My sincere hope is that people can make peace with who she was and see her as a human being. She did.
Brandon Love
January 17, 2009
Jennifer Gale was the kind of person we could all learn something from, including myself. I had to pleasure to meet her in person and I honestly admired her courage, sincerity, vibrance, love and obviously very forgiving nature.
Two Friends of Jennifer
January 17, 2009
We’ll Miss You, Jennifer Gale
Jennifer Gale, 1960-2008
Austin City Council meetings and mayoral races will never be the same. She was a true character, one that you would be hard-pressed to find anywhere else but Austin. The first time Megan and I came across Jennifer was while we were watching the Austin Music Network back in 2004. They were playing Christmas music videos and they showed a clip of Jennifer singing at a City Council meeting. We were immediately confounded, amazed, and smitten. Bye, Jennifer, and thanks for making the world a more interesting place.
Mike Lo Vuolo
January 17, 2009
May you rest in peace Jennifer. It’s no secret that Jennifer may have had some problems, however we must all remember that she was a human being first and a person who wanted to see change in the world and she worked for that change the best she could. One other thing we must never forget is that she was a marine at one time and protected every citizen of this country and for that I’m very thankful. May we learn a lesson from her that all people are NOT created equal in this country, until all people are treated the same. Rest in peace Jennifer and thanks for the work you did trying to make this country and world a better place to live.
SIEMPER FI, MARINE!
Jack
January 17, 2009
This story is so heartbreaking. I have so much respect for her and what she achieved in spite of homelessness. She made you think. Jennifer is example of someone who always stood tall in the face of extreme adversity, and did so with a smile. I hope she is remembered with the admiration she deserves.
Linda
January 17, 2009
Sad - I can only hope things were better for her in death than in life. May God bless her soul!
Rosemary
January 17, 2009
As far as her rights to be respected and honored, t I believe that understanding more could help make the world a better place. And I think she would like it very much if we were wanting to understand each other more deeply.
Here's to your beautiful Spirit, Jennifer! Thanks for spending time with us and making things better! R
Mark Allen
January 17, 2009
Very sad, unfortunate news. Here's hoping Jennifer Gale's unusual, invigorating story of public service inspires others -- it usually does!
I Miss My Friend Jennifer
January 17, 2009
Jennifer Gale served her country, and only wanted to better her community. While she had every right to be bitter, she choose to try and make life better for others. I hope she has found peace and a place to rest.
I really am thrilled to see so many positive comments made about Ms. Gale, I am sure she would have really appreciated it.
Ryan
January 17, 2009
That's sad to hear that Jennifer passed away. Dallas would surely have been better off with her at the helm as mayor than anyone else.
Roger Herrera
January 17, 2009
I remember during a Dallas mayoral candidates' meeting where free food was provided. Jennifer made it a point to advise me to take extra food home, so I could have something to eat later on. I thought it was odd for anyone to think I worried about my next meal. (Maybe my mom's right and I'm too thin.)
Ricia Martin
January 17, 2009
An Austin tribute
Re: Dec. 18 article "City loses 'Austin original.' "
I was very moved by the tender, respectful story about Jennifer Gale's life and passing. I doubt there are many cities or newspapers that would eulogize such an unconventional life. Thank you, Austin, for practicing the spirit of the season throughout the year.
Gregg
January 17, 2009
We used to call her beautiful dreamer because we didn't think that her dreams would ever come true.
But because of her, we know perhaps ours can.
Farewell, Jennifer, Godspeed.
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