Stacey and Ellen,
I'm so sorry for your loss . I will always remember Gayle for her smile, that crazy "chuckle laugh" and for her love of people. I was blessed to have known her and both you girls. I ran into Gayle about 20 yrs ago in Opryland  Hotel on New Years Eve and we caught up on what was happening in our life . Family was the light of her life and she loved hers deeply. You both have grown up beautiful women with families of your own  many years from 1988 when you both were in my wedding . God bless you girls you are truly beautiful.
Sheila I (Lovins) Balentine




Dear Stacey and Ellen,

I'm so sorry to hear of your mother's passing. I have wonderful memories of her when we were young and she always made me feel right at home. Lots of love and prayers to you both!

Love, Amberly

Dear Stacey and Ellen,

I am so sorry to hear of your mother's passing. So many fond memories come to mind of her and our trips to the beach as kids. 

My Deepest Condolences,
Emma 

Dear Stacey and Ellen,

I am so sorry to hear about your mother.  Although she left Murray and never looked back, I often thought of her and always missed her smiling face, and the fun we had with you all and Morgan. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you. Much love,
Mona B


Gayle.
The difficulty in writing something about a person when she has passed is that you might get it wrong; you might not encapsulate her life’s doings appropriately.  Writing about Gayle offers that unusual opportunity to open a door showing something not often seen: unparalleled mirth. Gayle was actually one large magnificent smile. 

Writing the historical account of how people’s connections occurred is always compelling; who wouldn’t be interested in how we managed to link our souls while walking the planet? But for Gayle, it’s more imperative to show her ability to shine. She shone through Stacey and Ellen possibly the most, but she gave us all the chance to glow a bit more when she shared her laughter, her insights, her quirkiness. Gayle gave of her time, of her energies with some form of inner delight that Phillip and I couldn’t fathom. She enjoyed spending time with teenaged girls; we weren’t sure that was even possible? She  continued to shower our Courtney with the rare gift of learning about loud non-approval coupled with loud unapologetic laughing acceptance. And she helped Courtney grow into a stalwart friend who could overlook (and actually ignore) the unpleasant behaviors of others. Gayle personified smiling and shouting unconditional love. We thank her for her profound role in shaping our daughter’s life. 

We will miss Gayle’s smile and shining presence but we will always feel the warmth of that glow she so freely offered. Thank you Gayle for the important life gifts you gave; we’re honored and blessed to have known you.  


I will never forget the first time we spoke after I ask Ellen to marry me. I told Gayle that we could both agree on one thing, she deserves someone better than myself but that I would never dishonor her in any way and that I would love her unconditionally. Gayle told me to never say that I was not good enough because I was. That was Gayle, worried about her daughter but reassuring me that I was worthy of her love.  I know there is sorrow here but rejoicing on the other side for Momma G.

Aunt Gayle was 12 when I was born, she carried me around and wanted to do all the baby things. My Mom said she tasted everything that went into my mouth and always wanted to feed me and hold me. As I grew and she became a teenager she still had time to play, read and cuddle. When I became a teen she was there to listen and advise. As adults we were both busy raising families but still had time to catch up and it was like no time ever passed, we would just chat, it was easy and caring. We had special bond that will never be broken, she was a wonderful aunt and a great friend, someone to look up to and admire, forever on your side no matter what. She is a beautiful soul who will be missed down here but will be watching over us all from heaven. 

Gayle was a part of my life for forty years. She was truly a wonderful person and sister-in-law.  She loved God, her family her girls and grandchildren so much. My life was blessed just having her in it. 

Aunt Gayle you were always so welcoming and cheerful every time I saw you and I will forever be grateful to you for welcoming me with open arms into the family. You will be greatly missed.

I first met Gayle in 1983. I was a little nervous and afraid she wouldn't like me...I was dating her brother Jeff.  She instantly made me feel comfortable and at ease. She was just that way! We are not only sisters-in-law, we are friends who love spending time together...especially on the beach! There could never be a better sister-in-law. I love her dearly, and will always treasure our time together.

Christmas 2016, I just had my son Isaiah Phillips in November and aunt Gayle was so excited to see and hold him while I enjoyed the rest of the family. Aunt Gayle has always been a great joy to be around with her welcoming smile. I will forever miss and love you. I loved seeing such a happy spirit during the holidays, seeing her smile would make all of your problems go away in that moment. You will be missed. I love you aunt Gayle.

Gayle was in my graduating class in  1973 from Smyrna High School. Had not changed from then till now, pretty as ever inside and out. God bless.

OBITUARY

Gayle Phillips Foster

November 8, 1954 – June 24, 2019

Roselawn Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens

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