Gayle Carmen Teeters

Gayle Carmen Teeters September 19, 1926-September 2, 2012 After a short battle with cancer, Gayle passed away peacefully with her family at her side on Sunday, September 2, 2012. Gayle was born in Akron, Colorado to Christian and Carmen McDonald. She lived in Akron until the age of nine when the family left Colorado to begin a new adventure in Mehama, Oregon, where she resided until 2000. She attended school in Mehama and Stayton. She was a member of the Mehama Church most of her life and after moving to Salem she attended Sunday School at the First Church of the Nazarene. For many years Gayle was employed at the Mehama Post Office and The Hub, but most importantly she was a fulltime wife and mother. On New Years Eve, 1953 Gayle married Don Teeters and together raised four sons. Don and  Gayle were married 56 years before his passing in 2010. She loved telling stories about her younger years in Colorado and always wanted her family to know how fortunate they were not to have had to live through the Depression, yet she had many fond memories of growing up. Gayle and Don loved to travel across the United States in their motor home, but were always glad to be home in Oregon. She will be remembered as the matriarch of the family. Gayle always made sure everyone was cared for, whether it was family, friends or neighbors, and taught her family to always keep others in their prayers. She loved the Sunday family dinners and cheering for the Blazers. Gayle is survived by her sons Doug (Vicky), Bruce (Sandy) and Denis; grandchildren Aretha (Demetrius), Shane (Donna), Casey (Tiana), Amber (Andy), Ryan, Troy, Donald and Teresa; 12 great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; sister Joyce Longfellow; many nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Don; son Harold; grandson Brandon; sister Aladean (Deanie); and brother Allen (Bud). The family would like to thank Dr. Paul Huun for his many years of wonderful care for both Gayle and Don; Odyssey Hospice caregivers; the staff and caregivers at Sweet Bye and the many family and friends that visited, phoned and sent their prayers during Gayle’s illness. Gayle will be laid to rest at the Fox Valley Cemetery, Lyons, Oregon. At her request there will be a private family service. In lieu of flowers, Gayle suggested contributions of your choice to Odyssey Hospice, Salem or Sweet Bye & Bye (Wildflower) Salem. In Gayle’s words – “I’ve lived every day practicing to meet the Lord, and I’m ready now.” Arrangements entrusted to Weddle Funeral Services Stayton, OR.