Gail Rector

Gail Elaine Rector (née Rose) was born in Springfield, Illinois to William Rose and Patricia Zimmerman Rose. Gail graduated from Lanphier High School in 1969. In 1972, Gail moved with her son Dominic to Urbana. While working at Wandell's Tree Nursery in 1975 Gail met Jim Rector and they fell in love. Gail, Jim, Nick and pets SB and Goliath moved into a small house on Brownfield Road.  In 1979 they were married in the parlor at the home of Jim's grandmother, Ruby West of rural Sidney. In 1983, Gail and Jim were blessed with a baby girl, Mary Elizabeth. Gail later completed an associates degree at Parkland College and was certified as a National Mediation and Reconciliation practitioner through Indiana State University.  Gail took great pride in her work as a mediator.

Gail worked for the Urbana Post Office for 34 years as a rural mail carrier. She served as the rural letter carriers union steward and delegate to several state and national union conventions. She enjoyed delivering the mail and meeting the people on her route who loved her very much. It gave her great joy to see people excited to receive the letters she brought them. 

In 2017 Gail and Jim welcomed their first grandchild, Saskia with open arms and in 2019, were blessed with a second granddaughter, Annika.  Gail loved spending time with her girls in Oregon and they loved piling up for naps and snuggles with "Gigi".

Gail loved to paint and draw, was an avid reader and enthusiastic book collector. She was a prolific sender of cards to many friends and relatives year round.  Gail practiced Tai Chi for many years with master Chungliang Al Huang and traveled to several retreats led by him.  

On June 2, 2024, our Mother, Wife, Grandmother, and dear friend Gail Rose closed her eyes and fell asleep one last time before her next great adventure. She faced every challenge with courage, determination, and a smile.  We will miss you always Gail, Mom, Gigi, Friend.  We love you Gigi.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, June 9th from 3-6pm at the Sidney Community Center at 211 East Main, Sidney.  Gail's family requests casual attire that Gail would enjoy.  If you would like to share a remembrance or photo with Gail's family please email them to gailrectormemories@gmail.com. Social furry family buddies are welcome.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sidney Community Library at PO box 395 Sidney, IL 61877 or the library of your choice.

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