Gail Lee Sturdevant

On the feast of Saint Jerome, September 30, 2025, I bid farewell to my beloved mother, Gail Lee Sturdevant, who entered into eternal rest to the Lord, peacefully at the age of 89, strengthened by the Sacraments and surrounded by prayer.

Born on May 4, 1936, in Connecticut, Gail was cherished by her parents, nurtured by her grandparents, and adored by her aunts, whose love and example instilled in her a deep faith and generous spirit. From these early blessings, Gail grew into a woman whose life radiated tenderness, devotion, and steadfast love.

Gail was an ever-loving and spirited wife to her husband, Howard, with whom she shared an affectionate companionship filled with meaningful endeavors and adventure. Together, they enjoyed a life that celebrated love, faith, and exploration. Each pursuing a career in the airline industry, they embraced the gift of travel together, journeying to explore new places. Of all their adventures, none brought them greater joy than their wedding anniversary journeys to Venice, sometimes coinciding with Easter —celebrating the Resurrection in a city radiant with beauty, tradition, and faith, a cherished custom they joyfully revisited over the years.

Throughout her long and blessed life, grounded in unwavering faith, Gail offered a living example of Christian charity. Through countless small acts of care, she embodied Christ’s call to love and serve.

Gail is predeceased by her beloved husband, Howard, and by her parents, Duane and Gertrude Flaherty. She is survived by her only child, Michele Jeka, with whom she shared a close and cherished bond, and son-in-law, Paul. She is also survived by Howard’s sons, his grandchildren, and a great-grandchild.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Ann Catholic Church, 7231 Mission Road, Prairie Village, KS, on Tuesday, October 7, at 1PM. Visitation will precede Mass at noon. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa, KS.

In lieu of flowers, Masses may be offered for the repose of Gail’s soul, or donations may be made to St. Ann Catholic Church in Prairie Village, KS, in her memory.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.