Linda Gail Northern

In 1944 Gail’s parents moved her and her sister Penny to Bandera, Texas, where they built and operated a “tourist court,” which today would be similar to a motel or extended stay. After the passing of her father, the family returned to Houston in 1953.

Gail graduated from Spring Branch High School in 1959 and attended Sam Houston State University, before marrying and raising two children. In 1990 Gail married Jim Northern and became the lucky recipient of two grown sons.

Leading a rich life filled with love, friendship and fun, Gail shared her zest for life with many. For over 50 years she gathered with the same group, many going back to her high school years, for bridge and travels throughout the US. There is still a question as to how much bridge was actually played, but the laughter and joy created by these ladies filled the house! She was also a longstanding member of a small circle of friends who met often for a rousing game of Bunco. Fueling Gail’s creative side included crafting with her Craft Frenzy girls and reading. She was always in the middle of a book or two and loved to gather with her Bookies to discuss the different views of others. Her family was fortunate to also call her “friend” and spent many wondrous hours camping, playing games, crafting, singing, or simply enjoying a glass of wine on the patio watching the dogs play.

As a devoted member of St. Giles Presbyterian Church for more than 40 years, Gail was a participant and leader of numerous committees, locally and nationally, and loved working with the younger members of the church as a teacher and advisor. She was fair and a voice of reason who worked with church leaders across the country to assist in guiding the future of the Presbyterian Church. Using her vast knowledge of property management, Gail worked tirelessly to ensure St. Giles and later Pathways Presbyterian, kept a roof over their heads. She influenced more people than she would ever know.

Gail’s faith in God and her belief that she was being led where she could be of the most use was a mainstay of her existence and inspired loved ones and acquaintances alike to strive to be better stewards of His word.

Gail is survived by her loving husband, Jim, children Ron (Robin) Crawford, Kay Crawford, Lanny (Nancy) Northern, Greg (Kerrie) Northern, sister Penny (Alan) Bell, 8 grandchildren, 1 great granddaughter, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and a host of long-time friends who adored her.

In lieu of flowers the family would rather a donation be made to one of Gail’s favorite charities, the Sierra Club.