Excell Edmonds Gale

Gale Excell Edmonds, 77, recently of DeLand, Florida passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2014. Gale, the daughter of Henry and Eunice (Williams) Excell, was born in Ithaca, New York; and grew up in Ovid, New York. After high school she attended SUNY Potsdam where she earned her bachelor's degree and a master's degree in education. Upon graduation Gale taught for five years in the North Syracuse School System. She is survived by Stuart, her husband of 52 years, their children, Thomas K. (Lesley) of Inverness, FL and Leslie E. Reid of Apopka, FL, their four grandchildren, Nicholas, Brooke, and Douglas Edmonds; and Dray Reid. She also leaves a sister, Sandra Wilkins of West Monroe, NY. Gale left teaching in 1963 and devoted her life to caring for her family and volunteer activities. After moving to Acton, Massachusetts in 1969 she volunteered in the school system during the children's formative years, and later participated in a literacy program and a prison ministry. A lifelong Presbyterian she was an active member of the Presbyterian Church in Sudbury, MA serving as an Elder and Deacon; and working with the Treasurer. While living in Massachusetts Gale developed an affection for Cape Cod. She cherished the long summer days on the bay and enjoyed the visits of friends and relatives. In 2005 Gale moved to DeLand, FL where she enjoyed playing bridge and attending concerts at the Stetson University School of Music. A service celebrating Gale's life was held on Wednesday, July 9th, at The First Presbyterian Church, 724 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand, FL. Memorial donations in her name may be made to the School of Music, Stetson University, 421 N. Woodland Blvd. - Unit 8399, DeLand, FL 32723.