Gail M. Strauss

Gail M. Strauss of Dover Plains, NY passed away peacefully on February 13, 2025, at the age of 75 with her loving family by her side. She was born on June 11, 1949, in Yonkers, NY, Gail's life was one of spirited involvement with her community, her family, and her many passions.
Gail's journey began as the beloved daughter of Frank and Penny (neé Korson) D'Avanzo, who predeceased her. She grew up in a lively household with her siblings Michael D'Avanzo (pre-deceased her), Frank D'Avanzo, Diane Mogg, and Karen D'Avanzo. Gail married her soulmate, Frank Strauss, with whom she shared 54 wonderful years until his passing in 2021.
Gail was a strong woman who loved with all her heart. Family and her friends were everything to her. Those close to Gail were always family not just friends. She was very proud of her daughter and her grandchildren and loved being with them and talking about them, their every success was her success, their every attempt was her attempt, their needs were her needs. She took pride in knowing she could support them in every way she could. She never missed a celebration or event for her grandchildren, being the loudest to scream or ring the cowbell at their soccer games and loudest to clap at their every accomplishment in life. She was the matriarch and strength of our family, always planning gatherings and always pulling us together. Her favorite time of year was Christmas when she was the planner of bringing us all to celebrate in a big way. Gails friends will always remember her anand Franks' never ending weeklong Mahopac backyard bashes filled with fun, food, stories and laughs galore, where everyone was welcome for days. Her home was your home always. No one close to Gail was ever lacking in love.
Gails's favorite activity in recent years included being an avid Bingo player, relishing the thrill of the game and the joy of community it brought. Her love for excitement extended to the casino slots and the open seas, where she enjoyed many cruises. One of her favorite places was the beach. Gail and Frank cherished winter living in Siesta Beach, FL She always wondered if the beach missed her as much as she missed it when back in NY.
Gail is survived by her devoted daughter, Kelly Strauss-Nogula, and her husband, Peter, her granddaughters, Samantha and Sabrina, her sister Diane, her sister Karen, her brother Frank his wife Lori, her sister-in-law Miriam, her many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.
All are welcome to attend a visitation on Monday, February 17th from 1-5PM at the Joseph J. Smith Funeral Home in Mahopac, NY. A private cremation will follow.