Gail Hungerford Gavalis

Gail Hungerford Gavalis, 68, of Gastonia, NC; a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and dear friend, passed away on August 13, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer.

She was born October 7, 1955 in Hartford, CT to Kenneth and Claire Hungerford, both pre-deceased.

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 45 years, Jerry Gavalis; and had two sons who she loved deeply, Garrett Gavalis of Newport, NC and Travis (Lily) Gavalis of Hong Kong. She was a devoted mother who always made time for her children, whether it was watching them play different sports, teaching them how to swim, or simply spending time together. Gail also adored her grandchildren, Zeppelin Gavalis and Brinkley Gavalis. She cherished every moment she spent with them.

Gail was the oldest sister of eight children in a close-knit family. She leaves her 6 sisters and 1 brother, Laura Hungerford of Norwich, CT, Joyce (Kenneth) Halkin of Kingston, NH, Karen (Mark) Bemis of San Antonio, TX, Nancy (Kristian) Jensen of Rye, NH, Holly (Stephen) Martino of Plainville, CT, James (Susan) Hungerford of West Hartford, CT, and Andrea (Joseph) Jednorowicz of West Hartford, CT.

Gail graduated from Central Connecticut State College in 1977 with a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education and Health. She started her career as a PE teacher/coach at the American School for the Deaf in CT, and transitioned to teaching swimming and water aerobics at New England Health and Racquet while her children were young. When the family moved to Gastonia, NC, she took a career as an EC teacher assistant at Forestview High School where she worked for 15 years with special needs students.

When Gail was not working, she enjoyed spending time with her family, biking, rollerblading, jogging, yoga, relaxing at home with her precious dog Daisy, traveling, and more than anything she loved the beach and rooting for the UCONN Huskies and UNC Tarheel basketball teams.

Gail was diagnosed with lung cancer shortly after her retirement and faced her illness with bravery and strength. Throughout her treatment she remained positive and focused on the things that brought her joy- her family, her dog, and her hobbies. Her courage was an inspiration to all who knew her and she will be deeply missed.

The family will have a private service as a celebration of her life. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Cancer Services of Gaston County, and the American Cancer Society.

Gail will always be remembered as a shining example of love, hope, and courage. Her life was a testament to the power of the human spirit, and her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift us all.

Online condolences can be made to www.greenefuneral.com