Gail Cicio Ireland

Gail Cicio Ireland, a devoted wife, mother, beloved educator, and passionate genealogist, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2024, surrounded by family and holding the love of her life’s hand, “Russy” in Simi Valley, California.

Born on December 21, 1937, in Worcester, Massachusetts, to John and Mary Cicio, Gail lived a life rich in love, learning, and laughter. She is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Walter Russell Ireland, four of their five children (preceded by their son Michael in 2016), Kathleen, Karen, John, and Sean, 13 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, her brother John David and sister Mary Ann and 2 nephews and a grandniece.

Gail was witty and clever but most of all loving and friendly. Gail was a hugger – always giving warm hugs to family and friends.

Gail's pursuit of knowledge was lifelong. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from the College of Our Lady of the Elms in Chicopee, Massachusetts, and later an MBA from California Lutheran University. Her intellectual prowess was recognized by her membership in Mensa International, a fact that often-elicited playful teasing from her family resulting in a coy smile.

As an educator, Gail dedicated 30+ years to the Simi Valley Unified School District, teaching Science, Computers and mostly math at Hillside Jr High School. Her innovative approach to education led her to develop math and computer curricula that impacted countless students.

Gail's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was an active member of several Catholic churches in Simi Valley and Moorpark, including St. Rose of Lima, Holy Cross and Saint Peter Claver, where she served as a Eucharistic minister. For many years Gail coordinated and attended the annual women’s retreat at Sacred Heart Retreat House. Her husband Russ was a member of the Knights of Columbus and Gail was a member of the Yaw-Yaw Sisterhood Catholic organizations that provides charitable services, promotes Catholic education, and defends Catholicism.

Her passion for genealogy spanned over 30 years and took her on adventures across the United States, Italy, and Ireland. This hobby perfectly combined her love for family, history, travel and for solving mysteries. She was a proud member of the Tree Squirrels, Conejo Valley Genealogical Society and The Red Hat Society. Gail also had an entrepreneurial spirit, running a tax preparation business with her husband and later founding Spirit Unlimited, where she published a book and CDs with spiritual meditations.

Together with Russ, they brought joy to many as Mr. and Mrs. Claus during the holiday season. A little-known fact is that Gail loved to entertain as a clown which reflected her fun-loving nature.

Gail's interests were as diverse as they were engaging. She enjoyed solving crossword puzzles, collected butterflies and squirrels, and had a knack for finding and gifting helpful gadgets to friends and family. Her love for life was evident in everything she did. Gail also had many traditions; one was gifting custom ornaments for Christmas for each grandchild that reflected their respective interest or milestone in the past year.

In her final days, Gail often expressed her hope that she had lived her life to the fullest. Her family and friends can attest that she indeed did, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and learning that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Gail Cicio Ireland is deeply missed; her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. May she rest in peace with God her creator. Please keep Mom and Dad in your prayers. Gail’s final hope, “I hope I have lived my life so that in the end, I can slide in sideways, with a glass of wine in one hand and a chocolate bar in the other, exclaiming, "Whee-ho! What a ride that was!"

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a Rosary November 8, from 9:30 – 10:00 a.m., followed by A Catholic funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life luncheon in the church hall at Saint Peter Claver Catholic Church, 2380 Stow Street in Simi Valley, CA.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Gail's memory to Sacred Heart Retreat House, 920 E Alhambra Rd, Alhambra, CA 91801 (626) 289-1353