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BORN
1946
DIED
2025
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Gail Montuori Obituary
October 10, 1946 - December 7, 2024
Gail Martin Montuori died on December 7, 2024, following a long illness. She was born on October 10, 1946, in Hot Springs, Arkansas. A graduate of the Hot Springs High School class of 1964, she went on to study teaching at Arkansas State Teachers' College, earning both a Bachelor of Education and a Master's Degree in Special Education.
While teaching in Pensacola, Florida, she met, fell in love with, and married her future husband, Joseph Montuori. For the next 53 years, she remained a steadfast companion. After a short time in Virginia Beach, Gail and Joe settled in Radford, Virginia, where they were part of the community for the next 43 years. While in Radford, Mrs. Montuori taught special education, both elementary and high school, in the Montgomery County schools, where she was a beloved teacher, helping generations of special-needs children achieve their highest potential.
A "Yellow Dog Democrat," Mrs. Montuori served her community as chair of the Radford Democratic Committee for 24 years. During that time, she hosted in her home Governors and Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, Governor Terry McAuliffe, Senators Chuck Robb and Jim Webb, Congressman Rick Boucher, and a host of other state and local Democratic candidates and activists.
At the time of her death, the couple was residing in Petersburg, Virginia.
Mrs. Montuori is survived by her husband, a daughter, Marissa Coon, a son-in-law, Joel Coon, and her beloved grandson, Jaxson Finn Coon. A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held in Radford, Virginia, on February 8 at the Radford High School auditorium at 12:00 noon.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gail Montuori
Sponsored by E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes & Crematory - Colonial Heights.
Phyllis Mink
February 9, 2025
We met Gail and her husband when they first moved to Radford because they were our neighbors! We lost touch later when they moved but she was always so friendly and kind when we ran into each other. I will always carry the memory of her wonderful personality in my heart. She will be greatly missed.
Danielle
February 9, 2025
Gail was one of the best! She was a strong opinionated woman and I will always love and respect her. She opened her home to us as young girls and helped us realize its ok to be yourself. Thank you for your space in my life Gail. I pray God rest your soul. May you be at peace now. - Danielle
carolyn staley
February 8, 2025
Your memorial service was beautiful and we are so thankful for your life!
Twinette McDonald
February 8, 2025
We will never forget all the wonderful gatherings we had with Gail. She loved big and had such a giving spirit. May she rest in peace.
David Brimer
February 8, 2025
Gail was a wonderful friend and neighbor. I will never forget her infectious laugh.
Sharon Farmer, Casa Blanca photographer
February 8, 2025
Casa Blanca lighted up whenever Gail visited. To meet her, talk to her, listening to her/history was always engaging. She knows/knew stuff & shared her knowledge of the past & present.
Raymond Brock Little Rock,Ar.
February 7, 2025
Love always , she believed in me at a young age, and taught me to believe in myself . Love always ! 6th Grade was fun !!
Q Byrum Hurst
February 7, 2025
Knowing her growing up and learning of her accomplishments and activism in her life, she was a wonderful person !
Linda Nichols Watts
February 5, 2025
Gail was truly "one of a kind". She was loyal, consistent, honest, stood steady in her beliefs and was the epitome of a Friend". Condolences to family and friends. Dwell on the good times.
Phil C
February 5, 2025
Gail Montuori
Such a beautiful person with a lovely personality and an ever-present smile. Gail was the only true Democrat I ever loved and respected. I will remember you forever in my heart and until we meet again...
Parham´s Service Center
February 4, 2025
Joe, Marissa and family, we were so saddened to hear of Gail´s passing . She was such a bright light, and would always make us laugh when she came in the shop. Praying for your family during this difficult time, Gail will be greatly missed.
Lee
February 4, 2025
Such a loss! Gail will be remembered fondly for her wonderful humor, intelligence, and extraordinarily warm and welcoming personality that never met a stranger. Did you know she went to school with Bill?!
Sammye J Auman
February 3, 2025
You will be sorely missed ! We loved your messages telling it like it was!! I remember our days in elementary school going to Scouts with Mom being our Leader! She was gorgeous and adored you!! We hope your heavenly home will be spicy just as you were!! Rest in peace my Dear Friend.. our Neighborhood was never the same when you moved!
Joe Penor
February 3, 2025
You´ll always be Crane Martin to me, only you, and I know why I called you that. Politically, we were opposite, but we loved and respected each other. Rest in peace.
Jerri McDermott
February 3, 2025
Gail's good friend--and my beloved companion--Jim McDade died just a few days before Gail. I believe they met when, in her years teaching in Pensacola, she helped out Jim's son Chad with his education. Jim thought very highly of her and kept in touch for years. He took me to a party Gail threw in Pensacola not too long ago; she was a charming person. I am missing Jim fiercely, so I send my sympathies to your family.
Antoinette Montuori
February 2, 2025
Loved the times we had over the years and the laughs! Miss you
Diane Newkirk Gatling
February 2, 2025
A beloved and sassy individual of our HSHS Class of '64, Gail will remain in our hearts!
Rest in peace, friend.
Anne Lingelbach
February 2, 2025
I met Gail and Joe on a trip to Europe. They were fun traveling companions. Gail had a fierce passion for family and students!
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