PENDLETON- LAWSON, GAIL 74, of Louisville, passed Friday, January 21, 2011 into the loving arms of her Savior's embrace, surrounded by her family.
Gail was born on September 18, 1936 in Hodgenville, KY. She was a member of Sts. Simon and Jude Catholic Church. She was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, John W. "Jay" Pendleton and her mother, Thelma Steiger.
She leaves behind to cherish the gift of her life her much beloved husband, Bill Lawson; children, Dr. Terrell Pendleton (Joe), Ange Pendleton; brother, Emery Hobbs (Betty); her second "Mother", her aunt Mary Saag our family matriarch; in addition, her step-children, Bill Lawson (Amy), Jim Lawson (Tina) and granddaughter, Karen.
A graduate of Manual High School in 1954, she enjoyed her working career at the phone company, Reynolds Metals, retiring after 23 years at BF Goodrich/Zeon Chemicals. Her boss of many years termed her "the best employee he ever had", all while keeping a home and raising two children, 15 years apart. A virtual "SuperMom". Whatever task put in front of her she gave her all with excellence and dedication.
When her husband Jay died of brain cancer in 2001, her world collapsed. A shy person by nature, she took control of her life and found her way to the J-Town Senior Center where she made many dear friends who loved her beautiful smile, her generous spirit- and her coordinated outfits. Her children saw her bloom in front of their eyes, doing aerobics and learning every dance floor move. She was a beautiful woman, loved her newly found friends, finally living a life for herself where before she only thought of her family first.
Gail formed a chapter of the Red Hat Society, "the Red Widows" as their "Queen Mum", lending her countless inspired hats, designed by Joe, to her fellow ladies while working for charities like Brooklawn.
It was at the senior center she caught the eye of Bill Lawson who only had eyes for "His Dollbaby." Friends at first, they spent time together, sharing a plate of food after dance functions. A four year courtship for Bill, until she felt her heart open for him, the love of her life, she told everyone. For almost three years of marriage, Bill treated her as his princess. We are left with an aching hole of gratitude and appreciation to God for lending us her loving and gentle spirit, His angel, a full life, well lived.
Her memorial service will be at 11 am Tuesday at Highlands Family-Owned Funeral Home, 3331 Taylorsville Road with burial in Cave Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1 8 p.m. Monday at Highlands.
Memorial gifts may be made to the American Cancer Society or Hosparus of Louisville.

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