Gail Ann Spencer

Gail A. Spencer (O'Donnell), 71, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2026, at Overlook Masonic Health Center in Charlton, following a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Gail was born and raised in Worcester, Massachusetts, before moving to Holden to start her family. In 1979, she settled in Cherry Valley, where she remained for the rest of her life. She was a proud graduate of Burncoat Senior High School.

Gail worked for many years at The Fair Department Store in Worcester, where she formed many lifelong friendships. Starting in the closeout department, she worked her way up to Housewares Department Manager and eventually Assistant Store Manager, a position she held until the store closed in 1995. She later worked for Millbrook Distributors and went on to become Store Manager at Duffy's Discount.

Gail is survived by her beloved and devoted husband of 53 years, David P. Spencer of Cherry Valley. She is also survived by her three children: Amy M. Spencer of Rochdale, Matthew D. Spencer of Cherry Valley, and Laurie A. Spencer of Leicester.

She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Patrick D. Spencer and his fiancée, Haley Long, of Rochdale, and Shane J. Stanikmas of Leicester.

Gail was especially proud of her two great-grandchildren, Lainey Lee M. Spencer and Mylo E. Stanikmas. She adored them with all her heart. They lovingly called her "Gigi," a title she treasured above all others.

In addition to her husband and descendants, Gail is survived by her sister, Diane S. Anderson of Cherry Valley; many nieces and nephews; and numerous dear friends, including her lifelong best friend, Linda Fauller, whose friendship began in middle school and lasted a lifetime.

Gail was predeceased by her parents, John W. and Rita P. O'Donnell, and her sister, Joan M. Desroches.

Gail loved adventure and creating lasting memories with those she loved. She attended countless concerts, enjoyed many camping trips throughout the Northeast with her family, and traveled with friends whenever she could. She particularly enjoyed vacations to Misquamicut Beach, relaxing by the pool surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and extended family, and spending time with her beloved dogs, Max and Jake.

Above all, Gail will be remembered for her love of family, her loyal friendships, her strength, and the joy she brought to those fortunate enough to know her.

As a final act of generosity and selflessness, Gail donated her body to the UMass Anatomical Gift Program, where she will help educate and inspire future generations entering the medical field.

Services will be announced at a later date and held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Gail's memory to the UMass Chan Medical School Foundation for Cancer Research. Please indicate that the gift is in memory of Gail Spencer.

Memorial gifts may be made online at https://www.umassmed.edu/cancer-center/ and clicking the donate button. Checks can be mailed to:

UMass Chan Medical School

Office of Advancement

55 Lake Ave North, S1-117

Worcester, MA 01655