Obituary of Gail Alexander

Gail Manning Alexander died peacefully in her sleep, in her own bed at home ending a year-long battle with brain cancer. Her husband, James, was at her side. Gail was born in South Bend in 1953 and was a very enthusiastic Central Bear, and she participated in many of James Lewis Casaday's plays. She was also in Mrs. Matthew's Synchronized Swimming group. Though a Central Bear at heart, she graduated from LaSalle High School in 1972. Gail met James at Edison Light in 1969. They fell in love immediately and deeply, and were married in May of 1972. After Gail's mother passed away later that year, she and James went to Ball State University, where she studied business. They later moved to New York City and travelled before moving back to South Bend to raise three wonderful daughters. She was an avid reader, camper, and adventurer, always seeking the unusual gems in life. Gail was a very eccentric person, as anyone who ever knew her will agree. She helped to catch two bank robbers by chasing them in her car and calling police. Gail went out to music venues in her fanciest pajamas; she fell on actor Verne Troyer, and the list goes on and on. There was never a dull moment with Gail. She was very proud of the real estate company she founded with Michelle Scott - Michigan Lakes Team, Inc. They built it from a dream with a vision, will power, and a lot of sweat. Gail was passionate about everything to which she devoted herself, especially her family. She and James have three daughters, Renee Crabtree (Jeremy Crabtree), Jamie Alexander, and Audrey Ernsberger (Troy Ernsberger), and four grandchildren-Tai Crabtree, Baylee Crabtree, Austin Ernsberger, and Autumn Ernsberger. She encouraged them in their endeavors and always pushed them, and everyone she loved, to be their best. There will be a celebration of her amazing life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions in her name to the Center for the Homeless in South Bend, IN, as she was one of God's most cheerful givers.