Gail Gill

Gail Traquair Purdy Gill, beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2025, at Westminster Village in Dover, Delaware. She was 88.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1937, Gail spent much of her adult life in Wilmington and Middletown, Delaware, where she built a vibrant and meaningful life rooted in family, community, and an enduring passion for helping others.

Gail graduated from Haverford College in the 1950s, and went on to have a distinguished career as the Director of the Lewis B. Flynn Medical Health Library. Her legacy in the field of medical librarianship was cemented with the creation of the Consumer Health Library — a resource she was instrumental in developing and which was later named in her honor upon her retirement.

In 1958, she married the love of her life, Richard Earl Gill, with whom she shared many joyful years until his passing in 2012. Together, they raised two sons, Richard and Peter Gill, who survive her. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Kelly and Ethan Gill, who brought her immense pride and joy.

Gail’s life was rich with creativity and connection. She was a master hostess known for her unforgettable parties, a dedicated gardener, an expert seamstress and weaver, and a beach lover who found endless joy lounging by the sea. And a maniac for discipline with a wooden spoon.HaHA Her home was always open, her heart always warm, and her friendships lifelong — an insurmountable circle of love she maintained with grace and enthusiasm.

She will be deeply missed by all who had the good fortune to know her, but her legacy of kindness, elegance, and unshakable spirit will live on in the countless lives she touched.

In lieu of sending flowers, please plant something beautiful in your gardens in her memory.