Gail Ann Somerville

Feb 13, 1944 -

May 23, 2021

The family of Gail Ann Somerville wishes to announce her passing on Sunday, May 23, 2021, at the age of 77. Gail resided in Anchorage, Alaska, and passed peacefully at her Palmer, Alaska, home in the company of her daughter-in-law, Bonnie; her granddaughter, Elizabeth; and her treasured pet, Arctic Cat.

Gail was born on Feb. 13, 1944, in Los Angeles, Calif., to John Howard Roberts and Doris (Wilding) Roberts. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in anthropology and a master's degree in education.

Gail taught in Watts from 1966 to 1978, when she moved up to Alaska. She then taught 35 years at Denali Elementary before retiring. She made a lasting and positive impact on generations of students and teachers alike, making many lifelong friends along the way. Gail donated time to many treasured causes including the Iditarod, the Eagle River Nature Center, the Last Frontier Motorcycle Club and many more.

Gail will forever be remembered as someone who was generous with her time, energy and spirit. She was always quick with a beautiful smile and a joke to draw grins, groans and laughs.

She cherished her family and was cherished in return. She is survived by her son, Eric and daughter-in-law Bonnie Moore; grandchildren, Abigail, Andrew and Elizabeth; sister, Joan Moseley; cousin, Valerie Wilding; many nieces and nephews; as well as hundreds of students, teachers, co-workers, well-wishers and friends. Gail knew no strangers, only friends she had not yet met.

Gail was laid to rest at Anchorage Memorial Park Cemetery on Friday, May 28, 2021. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in her name to the Eagle River Nature Center or Anchorage Museum.