Gail Ann Crum, of Mount Airy, Maryland passed away in the comfort of her home on Tuesday, April 26, 2022. She was 85. She is survived by her son, James Edward Crum Jr.; daughter-in-law, Heather Michele Crum; and grandsons Alan James Crum and Phillip Daniel Crum, all of Mount Airy, Maryland. She was preceded in death by her husband of 36 years, James Edward Crum.
Born April 7, 1937, she was the only child of Col. Philip Dow Cooley and Velma Audie Cooley (Gilley) of Norman, Oklahoma. Growing up as the only child of a military officer, she resided in numerous cities and even occupied-Japan, as her father’s duty station(s) often changed. Despite multiple moves, she developed many enduring friendships that lasted throughout her life. After high school, Gail attended Oklahoma University, graduating with a bachelor's degree. She entered the work force and was employed with the Social Security Administration, rising to serve as a District Manager. Work brought her from California to Maryland and soon after, she met her husband, James Edward Crum. Married in 1970, she welcomed her first and only child a year later. With the new responsibilities of motherhood, Gail elected to leave her career behind and begin the next phase of her life as a mother and homemaker.
Gail had many interests, hobbies, and activities which allowed her to be involved in all aspects of family and community. She was an active member of the Saint James Episcopal Church. She spent many hours working at the Saint James Thrift Shop. She enjoyed gardening and was involved with the local gardening club and aided in beautification projects in and around town. She worked with Mount Airy Net, the Mount Airy Youth Athletic Association, school PTAs, band boosters, and the Red Hat Society. She also found time to serve as a part-time mail carrier and substitute teacher with the elementary and middle schools. Gail enjoyed baseball and followed the Baltimore Orioles, attending many games at Memorial Stadium and Camden Yards.
Gail found tremendous joy in the lives and accomplishments of her grandchildren. She played an important supporting role in their formative years, providing immeasurable help with childcare and attending all their events and activities.
Burial and services for Gail will be handled by both Molesworth-Williams Funeral Home, Damascus, Maryland and Doan & Mills Funeral Home, Richmond, Indiana. She will be laid to rest at the Lutherania Cemetery in Richmond, Indiana. Viewing and services will private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory can be sent to Saint James Episcopal Church, 1307 North Main Street, Mount Airy, Maryland 21771.
Online condolences may be shared with her family on our website www.molesworthwilliams.com
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