Obituary – Gail Gregory
Gail Gregory, of Edgar Springs, Mo., passed away surrounded by loved ones at Phelps Health in Rolla, Mo., on Friday December 19, 2025, at the age of 83. She was born on June 21,1942, in Eldon, Mo., to the late Gailen “E.G.” Rochelle and Katherine “Henson” Rochelle.
She married the love of her life, Gerald “Jerry” Gregory, on March 27, 1958, in Uravan, Colorado. As the wife of a career service member, she carried the weight of frequent moves, long separations, and constant uncertainty. In 1979, they made Rolla, Missouri, home. Their love for antiques became more than a hobby when they opened their antique store, where every piece had meaning and so did every customer. She cared for countless children providing love, laughter, and guidance through her in-home daycare. In her later years she fulfilled her passion for sewing and opened a fabric and quilt shop.
She was exceptionally skilled with finances, and she lived a life marked by strength, independence and generosity. She was always willing to help those less fortunate, offering her support quietly and without hesitation. Her compassion extended beyond words and was reflected in her actions every day. In her free time, she found joy and creativity in antiquing, quilting, crocheting, and making jewelry, in her later years especially. Above all else, family always came first. Her loyalty to those she loved was unwavering, and she was the foundation that held everyone together.
Gail was preceded in death by her parents, husband Gerald Gregory, siblings John Rochelle, Martha Ruggles and Lois Mace, and granddaughter Virgina “Jennie” Horn.
Gail will be deeply missed by her surviving family, including her son Gary and Lela Gregory, of Rolla; daughter Rochelle “Shellie” Horn, of Edgar Springs; grandchildren Niccole and Charles Speed, Wesley Horn and Amber Farrar, and Josh and Teah Ortiz, all of Rolla; great-grandchildren Mason Horn, of Edgar Springs, Colton and Wyatt Skyles, Aubrey Speed, Carlee and Chase Horn, and Trinity, Zander, Alizabith and Tyrian Ortiz, all of Rolla, sister Charlette and Ken Harris, of Edgar Springs; brother Gary Gregory; brother-in-law Bill and Joan Gregory, of Chesapeake, Va.; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
There will be a Celebration of Life at a later time.
