Gail Jean Root, 72, of Fort Myers, FL, went home to the Lord on Monday, March 3, 2025. Born on February 13, 1953 in East Orange, NJ, and raised in Maplewood, NJ and Pompano Beach, FL, Gail was a devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, cousin, and friend.
Gail’s radiant spirit was reflected not only in the way she loved but also in the way she lived. The sparkle in her eyes, the bold colors she wore, and her signature blue mascara were outward expressions of the vibrant, warm, and magnetic person she was. Her presence filled every room with light, and her heart had an unmatched capacity for kindness, silliness, generosity, and unconditional love. Gail was fiercely loyal, always standing by those she loved through every season of life. Her ability to forgive and extend grace was a reflection of her deep compassion and selfless care for others.
More than anything, Gail's greatest passion in life was her family. She shared an unbreakable bond with her only daughter, Melissa, who was not only her pride and joy but her very best friend. In recent years, becoming a “GG” to Radlee and Lennon brought her immense happiness. They were the light of her life, and every moment spent with them filled her heart with giddiness.
Gail built a successful career in sales and project management, spending the last decade of her professional life at OFDC Commercial Interiors in Fort Myers, FL. She was known for her incredible work ethic and commitment, always going the extra mile to help her colleagues succeed.
Gail’s zest for life was reflected in simple pleasures – singing along to every lyric of her favorite 60s hits and classic rock anthems, celebrating friendship over glasses (sometimes bottles) of wine at Cooper’s Hawk, or watching old Westerns with her hubby, Jimmy. She had a deep love for her country, enjoyed going to the dinner theatre, took pride in celebrating the people she loved, and never needed a reason to spoil her grandchildren with “happy cakes.” Even the smallest moments mattered to Gail because she knew they were the most precious.
Gail was a woman of deep faith, finding strength and comfort in her love for Jesus. She carried that faith with her through every challenge and triumph. Even in her final days, she demonstrated remarkable resilience, determination, and a solution-driven nature.
Gail is survived by her daughter Melissa Mitchell (Joel); grandchildren Radlee (4) and Lennon (2); sister Nancy Marion (Bruce); cousin Judi Best (Steve); bonus daughters Shannon and Melissa Root, along with six extended grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; as well as godchildren, even more extended family members and many friends. Gail was preceded in death by her husband and soulmate Jim (James) Root, first husband Gary Cofta, mother Lillian Jean Moore, father Thomas Moore, and mother-in-law Mary Ann Root.
A celebration of Gail’s life will take place on Sunday, March 9, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. (doors open at 1:00 p.m.) at First Christian Church of Fort Myers, 2061 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL 33901. Guests are encouraged to wear purple, bright/bold colors and patterns, or sparkly accessories representing Gail’s shining personality.
Following the service, all are welcome to continue the celebration of Gail’s life with shared stories and a toast in her honor at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL.
In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Gail can be gifted to Cancer Alliance Network at https://canceralliancenetwork.org or First Christian Church of Fort Myers at https://fccfm.org.
First Christian Church of Fort Myers
Doors open at 1:00 p.m. Guests are encouraged to wear purple, bright/bold colors and patterns, or sparkly accessories representing Gail’s shining personality.
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