Gayl Patrice Dennany was born June 20, 1945, in Kalamazoo, the daughter of Edwin and Joan (Thompson) Athey.

Gayl passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, June 6, 2020, at home.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father; her husband; Charles J. Dennany Sr.; and her beloved aunt and uncle, Gloria and George Morris.

Gayl is survived by her son, Charles and Kathy (Sites) Dennany of Plainwell, Mich.; a brother, Roger (Susan Butler) Athey of Scottsdale, Ariz.; a niece, Jessica (Athey) Chagolla of Phoenix; and her many loving cousins and their families.

Gayl loved animals from an early age, as her big collie, Chief, was her constant companion for the early years of her life. Gayl progressed through the Portage Public Schools until her graduation from Portage High School, where she was a proud member of the varsity tennis team. Gayl then attended Ferris State University and Parsons Business College. The first few years of Gayl’s adult life were spent in Detroit before she moved back to the Kalamazoo area. She was an elementary school librarian in the Comstock Public School system for 25 years, and later worked at Target on S. Westnedge for many years.

Gayl loved the outdoors and gardening, especially hanging out with her mom in Joann’s flower garden. Gayl greatly enjoyed travel and meeting people. She always looked forward to her winter trips to Arizona and Kino Bay, Mexico. She was happiest when she was surrounded by family and friends and involved in their activities.

She was a longtime member of St. Thomas More Catholic Parish. Gayl was a kind, compassionate person, accepting of all. She was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

A private visitation will be held at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford, followed by Gayl’s wishes to be cremated. Gayl’s ashes will be buried at a later date with a graveside service honoring her memory. Memorial donations in Gayl’s name may be made to the Constance Brown Hearing Centers of Kalamazoo. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.