Mrs. Gail J Summerson of Robwil Drive, Fort Plain, and previously, Smith Street, Canajoharie, passed away Thursday, February 5, 2026, following a struggle with Alzheimer's disease that she met head-on from diagnosis to the end. Born October 17, 1944, in Amsterdam, NY, to Victor ("Duke") and Ann Quackenbush, Gail lived her entire life within a five-mile radius in Canajoharie, Palatine Bridge, and Fort Plain.

A proud 1962 graduate of Canajoharie High School, Gail married her high school sweetheart, Jay V Summerson, on October 16, 1965, and enjoyed over 60 years of marriage where they raised their son, Jay Andrew “Andy.” She never traveled far for employment, working at Beech Nut during its heyday, The Hartford, Central National Bank, and NBT. While she enjoyed that work, Gail’s true vocation in life was being a caregiver. It didn’t matter if it was a family member or friend, she was always there to help however she could. Even Alzheimer’s didn’t strip that caring and concern for others later in life.

Between school and her places of employment, Gail made life-long friendships which she cherished and held on to till the end. Gail retired young, mostly to care for her ailing mother, but also because Jay was retiring and she didn't want him to enjoy retirement without her.

Gail’s interests were varied and interesting.  She was a proud Kennedy Democrat, loved music she could dance to, especially Elvis, took pride in organizing Susi family reunions, enjoyed camping next to an Adirondack lake or vacationing near the ocean, and truly loved her neighbor-dog, Sunny.

Her most cherished times were spent with her twin grandchildren, Grace Ann and Nicholas. Whether it was helping to take care of them as babies, getting them off the bus after kindergarten, building forts out of just about anything, attending school events, taking them on trips, organizing shopping excursions, especially to The Book House, or having them to the home she and Jay shared, Gail found pure joy in both of them.

Gail is survived by her husband, Jay; son, Jay Andrew (Rozanne); grandchildren, Grace and Nicholas; a special cousin who was like a daughter, Tracy Breakell, and several cousins and friends. She will be missed terribly by all.

Burial and a celebration of life will take place later in the Spring.  Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Arrangements are under the direction of Houghtaling and Hanley Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.houghtalingandhanley.com