Gail Bodenrader's Obituary
Gail (Donnelly) Bodenrader, a longtime resident of Georgetown, died peacefully on October 21, 2021 after a lengthy illness. She was 78. Gail is survived by Frederick Bodenrader (of Georgetown), her husband of 54 years, daughter Suanne Connolly (and husband Pete) of Peabody, and son Ted of Rowley. Daughter of the late Russell and Shirley Donnelly of North Andover, she is also survived by sister Beverly Perkins (and husband Peter) of Boxford, as well as several nieces and nephews. A 1961 graduate of North Andover High School, Gail moved to Georgetown in 1969, where she remained active with St. Mary’s Church, serving as president of its Women’s Club. Gail was a member of the VFW Women's Auxiliary in Georgetown. Her tale of extraordinary grit and perseverance was legendary at Massachusetts General Hospital, where she endured four open heart surgery operations over the span of four decades. Despite numerous health challenges, Gail remained the longtime owner and operant of the Bay State Coffee Shop in downtown Lawrence, later becoming a floral deliverer with Flowers by Steve in Bradford. A friend to many, Gail was adored for her sense of humor, frankness, and boundless energy. A passionate caretaker of eight beagle hounds, she also cherished wine tasting, New England seafood, and frequent trips to Bermuda, Las Vegas, and Foxwoods Casino. Services will be private.
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