Gail Ripley

Gail Ripley, a devoted mother, grandmother, and lifelong advocate for children, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, in Oklahoma City.

Born in Wichita, Kansas to Gordon Appleby and Virginia “Ginnie” Brooks Appleby, Gail moved as a child to The Village, Oklahoma, where she was raised with her brother Greg. She graduated from John Marshall High School and attended the University of Oklahoma, later earning her degree from Langston University.

Gail built a meaningful and impactful career in early childhood education, dedicating herself to ensuring that vulnerable children and families had access to nurturing and enriching learning. She served as a regional administrator for Early Head Start programs in Amarillo, Texas and later continued her leadership as Director of the University of Oklahoma’s American Indian Institute Early Head Start program, shaping services for infants, young children and their families across the region. Her work left a lasting legacy in the field she loved so deeply.

Gail was a woman of great fortitude, approaching life challenges with determination and intellect. She found immense joy in cultivating gardens, doting over her beloved dogs, and seeking peace with a fishing pole in hand. A tinkerer and fixer, Gail always had a project — mending, building, or creating. More than anything, she cherished time with her grandchildren, spending countless hours playing, laughing and teaching them about the world.

Gail was the loving mother of Trent Ripley of Dallas, Shannon Bailey (husband Mike) of Bartlesville, and Jessica Hawkins (husband Aaron) of Edmond. She was grandmother to AJ, Ember and Hazel Ripley; Olivia and Connor Bailey; and Audrey and Rhett Hawkins, each of whom brought her immense pride and happiness.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Mickey Ripley, with whom she shared nearly 50 years of marriage.

Gail will be remembered for her unwavering strength, her steadfast investment in children, her leadership, and creativity. Donations in her name may be made payable to the Oklahoma Humane Society, info@okhumane.org, 405-286-1229, PO BOX 18471, Oklahoma City, OK 73154

Family and friends will gather Tuesday, October 21st at 10 am at the Grace Hill Cemetery pavilion in Perry, Oklahoma to honor Gail’s memory and legacy.