Obituary: Gail McCain
April 27, 1936 – November 13, 2024
November 22, 2024
Gail McCain. 1936-2024
Gail McCain, 88, passed away in the comfort of her home at The Woodlands at Stowe on Wednesday, November 13, 2024.
Born in New York, New York, on April 27, 1936, she was the daughter of William and Eleanore McMullen. On October 28, 1955, she married Donald R. McCain, III in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Gail attended Bucknell University.
After leaving Bucknell, Gail wore many hats in addition to being a homemaker and mother of her three sons. Gail and Don moved the family from Connecticut to Waterbury Center, Vermont, in 1970 where they purchased the old May Farm on Route 100, renovated the barn and opened the 1836 Shop, an antique and gift store. They expanded in 1977, developing the 1836 Cabins, a business providing guest cottages for tourists visiting the area. Gail was also a longtime hostess at the former Governor Tom’s restaurant in Waterbury Center and later worked in the office at Cold Hollow Cider Mill.
In her little spare time and after her retirement, Gail enjoyed spending time with her family and many friends, countless games of bridge, reading, traveling and adorning her home with holiday decorations that would often remain on display long after Christmas.
Gail is survived by her sons Brig McCain of Waterbury, Gunner McCain and his wife Mona of Waterbury, her grandchildren George, Jr. and his wife Caitlin, Lucas and his partner Judith Lara, Ryan, Adam, Kenzie and her husband David Rhoden, Caitlyn and Jake; her great-grandchildren Adeline, Gunner, Finley, Harper, Lilah, Hale and Rowan. Gail is also survived by her sister-in-law and dear friend Sharon Cascio, nieces Elizabeth Knisely and Melissa Berry and their families, many other loving relatives and dear friends, and her Woodlands community family.
Gail was predeceased by her loving husband Don, her son Donald (Crew) R. McCain IV, her sister Barbara Bowers, and her infant brother William.
A service celebrating her life will be held at The Woodlands at Stowe at 11 a.m. on Dec. 6. For those who wish, memorial gifts to Lamoille County Home, Health and Hospice, who provided Gail with care and comfort during her illness, or to the American Cancer Society would be appreciated.
Perkins-Parker Funeral Home in Waterbury is assisting the family. To send online condolences, please visit vtfuneralhomes.com or the funeral home Facebook page.