Gale Bennett

With love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Gale Bennett — devoted mother, “Grammy,” sister, aunt and friend. She departed this world on Sunday, August 17, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and devotion.

Born in East Orange, New Jersey, to the late Helen Pugsley and Albert Bennett, Gale was educated in the East Orange Public School System and proudly graduated from East Orange High School. Though shy as a child, she had a natural gift for making friends. Her warm smile and gentle spirit drew people in, while her compassionate heart allowed her to connect deeply with those who were hurting or in need of care.

When Gale gave her life to Christ as an adult, God used these gifts in even greater ways—enabling her to create a safe space where others could share their prayer requests and burdens, which she carried faithfully before the Lord. She lived by the principle: “To whom much is given, much is required.” She served not out of duty, but out of genuine love for God and people.

At Clear View Baptist Church, Gale gave generously of her time and talents through many ministries over the years, including Nurses, Missionaries, Evangelism, Intercessory Prayer, Grief Support, Health & Wellness, Ushers, Seniors on the Move, and Small Groups.

Her service extended far beyond the church walls. She faithfully served on the intercessory prayer team for Be The Bridge, a national nonprofit committed to racial healing, equity, and reconciliation. She also took part in the Women of Many Hats Ministries Organization, which is dedicated to uplifting individuals and communities through prayer, service, and spiritual empowerment. She briefly volunteered as a hospice aide at Beth Israel Hospital and faithfully served her building’s Tenant Association as treasurer, recording secretary, and 2nd Floor Captain—always making sure elderly residents were checked on each day.

Gale began her career at East Orange General Hospital in the housekeeping department. Through hard work and determination, she steadily rose through the ranks. After 30 years of dedicated service, she retired as Supervisor of the Admitting Department at CareWell Health Medical Center (formerly East Orange General Hospital). Her professionalism and commitment earned her recognition across the organization, including Employee of the Month. She deeply cherished her co-workers, and the special bond they shared endured well beyond her retirement.

Above all her many roles, Gale most treasured being a mother. She loved her children unconditionally, modeling forgiveness, faith, support, vulnerability, and encouragement. Her prayers and wisdom live on in her daughter, Lynnette (Patrick) Reid, and her son, Chris (Maya) Dawson. She extended her nurturing spirit to those she embraced as her own — Barbara (Owen) Harmon-Francis, Charles Surles, the late Charlene Harmon, and Michelle Appline. Her pride and joy were her grandchildren, Josiah and Matthew Reid, who brought her endless delight.

She is survived by her devoted sisters, Carol Ann Robinson-Shell (the late Ron) and Barbara Jean (the late R.C.) Banks; her nephews, Eric Robinson and the late Albert (Renee) Banks; her niece, Rosalyn (Tony) Banks-Taylor; and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended relatives who cherished her deeply. Her memory will also be treasured by her lifelong friends Debbie Mays, Sheila Wright, and Yvette Gabler, as well as her dear friend Patricia Harris-Moore who she now joins in eternal rest.

Gale’s life was defined by her steadfast faith, her devotion to her children and grandchildren, and her service to others. These qualities will live on in all who knew and loved her.