Gail Elizabeth Kaiser

Gail Elizabeth Clark Kaiser of Abilene, Texas passed away on October 22, 2022. A charming, yet feisty fighter to the very end, she took poet Dylan Thomas’ words to heart and most certainly did “not go gentle into the good night.”

Gail was born in Abilene to George Jenner and Emily Maurine Rice Clark. She attended the University of Texas-Austin, where she was a member of Delta Delta Delta, graduated with a double major in English and French, and then earned her master’s degree in liberal arts at Southern Methodist University in Dallas. While living in Dallas, Gail met and married Dr. Donald Edward Kaiser of Bishop, Texas, a former football player and graduate of Baylor University and the University of Texas, Southwestern Medical School. Upon completion of his residency at Southwestern, they moved from Dallas to Abilene for Don’s medical practice and to start a family. They had two daughters, Brooke and Shannon. Gail excelled at working her way through the complex dress patterns her daughters would request to create beautiful, handmade dresses for school and dances that they wore with pride. She made thoughtfully decorative cakes to commemorate birthdays and other occasions for family and friends. As a professional, Gail was an English, French, and history teacher at Clyde ISD before becoming the area director on aging for the West Texas Council of Governments. Gail was actively involved with her beloved Delta Delta Delta sorority throughout her life. She served as president of the Junior League of Abilene, treasurer of Pensadoras, and secretary-treasurer of the West Texas Brangus Breeders Association. In addition, Gail was a member of the Altar Guild at the Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest. She was the long-term chairman of Breakfast on Beech Street and a member of the Soup Sisters.

Gail was preceded in death by her husband Dr. Donald Edward Kaiser and her parents, Jenner and Maurine Clark. 

Gail is survived by her daughters, Brooke Kaiser of Los Angeles, California and Shannon Kaiser of Abilene.

In lieu of flowers, Brooke and Shannon request that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Rescue the Animals, Church of the Heavenly Rest, Episcopal, or donor’s favorite charity.

Brooke and Shannon wish to extend their appreciation to the Lyndale Memory Care staff, especially to Rachel Valfre and Darelyn Keim; as well as the Hendrick Hospice staff including Ember, Chris, Brenda, Nadia, and Karen for their patience, kindness, and compassion. We are profoundly grateful to the numerous family and friends who have steadfastly traveled with us and Gail on this journey. We love and thank you for your support.

A memorial service to celebrate Gail will be held on December 22 at 11 a.m. at the Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest located at 602 Meander Street. Services are under the direction of The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road.