Simon , Gail Diane
It is with great sadness and enduring love that we announce the passing of Gail Diane Simon, 84, of Palm Harbor, Florida, on Saturday, August 16, 2025. Born in Manhattan, New York, and raised in Forest Hills, Gail was the beloved daughter of the late Naomi (née Nack) and Irving Friedman. A woman of deep faith, compassion, and remarkable strength, Gail devoted her life to nurturing young minds and hearts - both in the classroom and at home. Gail earned her bachelor's degree in education from Queens College, City University of New York, and went on to receive her master's degree plus 30 above from The College of New Rochelle. In 1964, she married the love of her life, Leonard Simon, and together they built a home filled with warmth, values, and enduring love. A passionate and dedicated special education teacher, Gail began her career in the Bronx, shaping the lives of countless students with patience and heart. After relocating to Florida in 1986, she continued her impactful work at a few different Pinellas County elementary schools before arriving at Walsingham Elementary, where she taught until her retirement in 2011. Family was at the center of Gail's life. She found her greatest joy in spending time with her daughters and grandchildren, who brought her immeasurable pride and happiness. Whether playing bingo or mahjong with friends, capturing the world through her photography, or volunteering in her faith community, Gail embraced life fully and generously. A long-time member of Temple Ahavat Shalom in Palm Harbor and an active member of Hadassah, Gail's Jewish faith guided her every step and remained the cornerstone of her life. Her legacy of love, learning, and faith will continue to inspire all who knew her. Gail is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Rona (David) Dauman, Bonnie (Phil) Lalli, and Dara Simon; her brother, Douglas (Bonnie) Friedman; sister, Joanne Berman; grandchildren, Jacob Dauman and Lauren Dauman; as well as many devoted nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leonard Simon, and her sister, Lynne Trujillo. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 11 am at Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park, 2860 Sunset Point Road, Clearwater, Florida. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Gail's memory may be made to the
American Heart Association or The LAM Foundation, causes close to her heart. May her memory be a blessing - forever etched in love, learning, and light.
Sylvan Abbey Funeral Home
View Guest Book
www.tampabay.com/obitsPublished by Tampa Bay Times on Aug. 20, 2025.