Obituary of Gail Marie Wright

May 8, 1944 - Winnipeg, Manitoba

June 30, 2024 - Calgary, Alberta

Gail Marie Wright (née Irvine), born in Winnipeg, MB, on May 8, 1944, to Robert John (Jack) and Enid Marie Irvine, passed away peacefully, on Sunday, June 30, 2024, at Bow View Manor in Calgary, AB.

During her residency at Bow View Manor, Gail was embraced by the incredible staff who treated her with love and care. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to Dr. Barbara Smyth, the nursing staff, the recreation staff, and the entire Brenda Strafford Foundation, for making Gail's time there as happy as possible.

A teacher by profession, Gail worked at schools in Montreal and Edmonton, AB, before moving to Calgary with her family. When her children arrived, Gail chose to be a ‘stay at home Mom’ focusing on her family.  Later in life when her own children were grown, she continued teaching at the International School in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei, where she made lasting friendships with many expats now scattered across the western world.

Gail was an active member of various clubs including the Calgary Winter Club, the Engineers’ Wives Club, and the Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club. Gail enjoyed participating in curling, golf, and bridge, as well as being involved in all family matters throughout her life. 

Gail's compassionate nature, endearing presence, and vibrant spirit will be deeply missed by her large loving family, along with countless friends whose lives she touched.

Gail is survived by her devoted husband of 60 years, Garry, her son Jim (Laura), daughter Joanne (Robert), son Brian, and daughter Margo (Travis). She also leaves behind ten grandchildren, Sean, Max, Abigail, Adam, Rachel, Jake, Sam, Katherine, Lily, and Molly, all of Calgary.

She was predeceased by her mother Enid Marie Irvine, her father Jack Irvine, and younger sister Linda Unger.

The family plans to hold a Celebration of Gail’s Life in September.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Gail’s family here.

In living memory of Gail Wright, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.