Biography:

Gail Patricia Thomas was born on February 2, 1957, in Harlem Hospital, New York City, to the late Benjamin Thomas Sr. and Izola Bryant-Thomas. The youngest of six children, Gail was raised and educated in the Bronx, where she grew up surrounded by the strength and spirit of her family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Benjamin Sr. and Izola, and her beloved brothers, Benjamin Jr. and Albert.

After completing high school in the Bronx, Gail held a variety of jobs before finding her calling at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York, where she worked in the Dietary Department. For eight memorable years, she served alongside her mother, creating lasting memories and bonds with both staff and patients.

Gail was a vibrant, free-spirited woman with a heart full of generosity. She was known for her acts of kindness-offering food, clothing, and support to neighbors and friends in her building and community. She even looked after the birds, faithfully feeding the pigeons that would seemingly wait for her each day. In her own words, "the birds didn't give her a hard time and didn't talk back."

A woman of deep faith, Gail often referred to "her God" with affection and reverence. She was baptized as a child at Greater Central Baptist Church and later found spiritual renewal at St. Luke's Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Dr. Johnnie G. McCann Sr. There, she fully embraced the ministry, joyfully dancing in the aisles and attending every service. She continued her faith journey under the current leadership of Rev. Dr. Shane Hilliard and was a devoted supporter of his vision-"Christ, Church, Community." Gail even designed and distributed t-shirts bearing this motto, which were proudly worn during the church's prayer walks through Harlem.

Gail had an independent spirit and a passion for life. She was a proud shopaholic especially when it came to food-and never hesitated to speak her mind. Though sometimes misunderstood, her love for others and her willingness to help those in need was unwavering. Her greatest joy was found in her family, especially in raising her son Nigel and her grandson Malikhi, both of whom she lovingly cared for from birth. She devoted herself to them wholeheartedly, as she did to her faith and her church family.

On July 3, 2025, Gail passed away suddenly at Mt. Sinai Hospital following a brief illness. Her unexpected departure left a deep void in the hearts of those who loved her. She is survived by her son Nigel Gee, daughter Elaine Gee, grandsons Malikhi Gee and Marcus Stone, and her devoted sisters Julia Thomas Richie (Leroy Sr.), Elaine Thomas, and Sandra Thomas. She also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and the loving St. Luke Nation.

Gail's kindness, generosity, and faith-filled spirit will live on in all who were fortunate to know her. She will be deeply missed.