Gail Ann Simon

Gail Simon, beloved wife, mother, Nana and friend, passed away in peace and surrounded by the love she so freely gave throughout her life.

Gail was silly in the most wonderful ways, yet strong and steadfast when it mattered most. She was kind and thoughtful, smart and fierce; a fighter who faced life with courage and grace. To know Gail was to love her. She had a laugh that could fill a room and a heart that made you feel at home. Her joy was contagious, her kindness was unwavering, and her strength was quiet but unshakable. Gail was silly in the best ways, thoughtful in the deepest ways, and fierce when it came to standing up for the people she loved. She was, above all else, a fighter.

At just 15 years old, Gail met the love of her life, Kim, and together they built a love story that spanned 52 beautiful years of marriage. They raised three children—Tonya, Kerri, and Lee—who grew up with a living example of what true love, devotion, and partnership look like. Together, they showed the world that true love is not just in grand gestures, but in the everyday kindness, devotion, and joy they shared.

Gail was “Nana” to only one person, Brennan. Brennan loved learning from his “Silly Nana”, cooking, was one of his favorites to learn. She and Brennan had a special bond that encouraged both him, and her, to laugh and hold memories closely. Brennan loved going to visit Nana at her school when he was little. Even as a teenager, Brennan always chose to go visit Nana and PawPaw over anything else. Nana helped shape her grandson into a strong and kind young man. She was a very special person to Brennan.

Gail devoted over 30 years to a career in education, shaping young minds with patience, wisdom, and compassion before enjoying her well-earned retirement. Outside of work, she found joy in the simple pleasures, getting lost in a good novel, catching a movie, or losing herself in her art. A talented landscape painter, Gail learned from none other than Bob Ross, whose gentle encouragement inspired her to capture the beauty she saw in the world and who taught her that “there are no mistakes, only happy little accidents.”

Her legacy is one of love, laughter, resilience, and creativity. Gail will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, but her warmth and light will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 52 years, Kim Simon, and their three cherished children and grandson: Tonya Cox, Kerri Pellegrin (Kevin) , Lee Simon and Brennan Cox.

She is further survived by her sister, Sharon Rasco, who will hold dearly the memories they shared together.

Gail was preceded in death by her parents, Hamilton Joseph and Eva Mae Sullivan, and her siblings: :HJ, Patty, Ricky, Jamie, Bridgett, Grady, and Mary.

Gail’s family knows she would want “Happy Colors” at her funeral, so they encourage you to where your favorite non-black attire.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Gail’s life during her visitation and service on Friday, August 15, 2025. Visitation will be held from 12:30 to 2:00 PM at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road in Gulfport. Following the visitation, a burial service will be held at Southern Memorial Park in Biloxi at 2:30 PM.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport is assisting the family. Please sign the online guestbook and share memories at www.riemannfamily.com