Gail Cavanaugh

Gail Lynn Cavanaugh of Rochester Hills, Michigan passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2025.

Gail was born on July 30,1963 in Livonia, Michigan to the late John and Nancy Hayden. She earned her bachelor's degree from Ferris State University in 1985. It was while at Ferris State that she would meet the love of her life, James Cavanaugh, and the two were inseparable after that. She and Jim married in 1986 and started a beautiful life together.

Gail and Jim lived in Farmington Hills, MI and Troy, MI, where they spent over 35 years, before moving to Rochester Hills, MI. However, the home Gail loved most was the family cottage in St. Helen, MI, where some of her favorite summertime memories were made. She always enjoyed being near the water, on the boat, or just being there with family and friends.

Gail worked in computers for EDS for many years in the automotive field before becoming a project manager for Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Her organizational skills and creativity served her well in her profession where she was well-liked and respected.

Gail was joy personified. Her smile would light up any room she was in. Her positive attitude made others feel good simply by being in her presence. She was a gifted musician, talented in saxophone, clarinet, flute and handbells. She also had a flair for crafts and enjoyed trying new ones. She particularly enjoyed scrapbooking and made scrapbooks for all of her travels. She was a wonderful decorator with an exceptional eye and flair that made each home beautiful. One of her favorite things to do was entertain friends and family as she was a wonderful cook and made everyone feel welcomed and special. Aside from Jim, her kids, and family and friends, Gail was a great lover of dogs, getting immeasurable joy from Bella and the late Aska and Sydney.

Gail was a kidney transplant recipient and survivor for 34 years. She was a true fighter, an inspiration to many, and never dwelled on or let her health issues stop her from being the best wife and mother to her family. She will forever be remembered by all who crossed her path.

Beloved wife of James "Jim" Cavanaugh for over 39 years. Loving mother of Kelsey Cavanaugh and Austin Cavanaugh. Dear sister of Brian Hayden and sister-in-law of Karin Cavanaugh. Also survived by her faithful companion Bella.

Family will receive friends on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 11:00am-5:00pm and Sunday, January 11, from 2:00pm-6:00pm at A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home 2600 Crooks Rd (between Maple/Big Beaver) Troy, MI 48084.

A funeral service will be celebrated on Monday, January 12, 2026 at 11:00am at the funeral home. Visitation begins at the funeral home at 10am.

Those wishing to make an expression of sympathy are asked to consider a donation in Gail's memory to the National Kidney Foundation.