Gayle & Michael at the 30th Reunion

Gayle (Benning) Thompson passed away on May 7, 2006 in Napa, California at the age of 61.

Gayle was born in Vallejo and lived in Marin County for several years.  She moved back to Napa in 1977.  Gayle worked at Safeway, Payless, and Pacific Bell.  She retired in the mid-1980s in order to enjoy life more fully. She appreciated all of nature, and had a strong affinity for the ocean.  She was an avid camper and traveler.  The wonders of life, both great and small, were equally important to Gayle.

At Napa High, Gayle was a member of the Band, and was a Band Officer.  In her write-up for the 20th Reunion, Gayle related that she started at Safeway as a Checker, then became an Apprentice Butcher, one of the first in California.  Her love of travel took her to six foreign countries, mostly in Central and South America.  And just for fun, she raced midget cars!

In addition to her family, Gayle's great love was animal welfare.  Beginning in 1992, Gayle was the driving force behind the Wildlife Rescue Center of Napa County, a group of volunteer bird rescuers who nurse baby birds back to health.  Injured birds come from all corners of the County and include scrub jays, finches, mocking birds, grosbeaks, egrets, herons, and stellar jays.  Anywhere from 600 to 700 baby birds are rescued each season between May and September.  Gayle worked tirelessly for the organization, served as President for five years, and will be remembered for her strong and loving presence.

Gayle is survived by her husband Michael, one son, a brother, a sister, and one grandson who was an important part of her life.