Gale Thomas, affectionately known as “Gabe,” was born on January 22, 1950, to George Thomas Sr. and Katie Mae Russell and her family story also included Jesse Houston, her biological father. She passed away peacefully in Vallejo, California, leaving behind a legacy of love, family, service, and cherished memories.

Gabe grew up in Riverside, Texas, before moving to Vallejo, California in 1975. She attended Solano Community College, where she earned her Associate of Arts degree in Afro-American Studies, and later obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Development.

Gabe dedicated more than 30 years of her life to education, working for the Vallejo Unified School District. After retiring, she returned to her hometown of Riverside, where she worked for the Huntsville School District. She enjoyed traveling back and forth between California and Texas, spending precious time visiting and creating memories with her family.

Gabe was a devoted member of Broyles Chapel Church, where she faithfully served as an usher. Her faith, love for others, and commitment to her family were a meaningful part of the life she lived.

Gabe was preceded in death by her parents, George Thomas, Katie Mae Russell and Jesse Houston, and her siblings, Martha Ann, Patricia Ann, Lee James, and George Thomas Jr.

She is survived by her beloved children: Norman DeOcampo Jr., Teanetta Tubbs, Jason (Marriym) DeOcampo, Rodney Canada Sr., Brandy DeOcampo, and Teanakia Afolabi.

She was deeply loved by her grandchildren: Latoya, Norsheque, Michael, Jason Jr., Jordin, Nia, Jaymarri, Anthony, Kyer’rah, Jesstin, Freddie, Juwan, Branai, Jahnyah, Rodney Jr., Nakia, My’Aire, and Tayo, and a host of great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy.

Gabe is also lovingly remembered by her surviving siblings, Harvel (Inez), Charles (Tina), Debra and Becky (James), her beloved Houston siblings, devoted sister Barbara, and host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Gabe loved spending time with family and friends, especially when it was time to pull out the cards and play Pitty Pat and Tunk. But make no mistake—these were not friendly games! There was money on the table, quarters were changing hands, food was always involved, and everybody came ready to win. Gabe loved the competition, the laughter, the good food, and, of course, collecting her quarters! Those card games created some of the family’s funniest and most treasured memories—and if you lost, you better have brought enough quarters to keep playing!

Gabe’s family was her greatest joy. She cherished spending time with her loved ones, traveling, and watching her family grow. Her warmth, strength, generosity, sense of humor, and dedication to those she loved will forever remain a part of the lives she touched.

Gabe will be remembered for her commitment to education, her faith, her love of family, and the countless memories she created throughout her life. Though she is no longer with us, her legacy will live on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, family, and friends.

Her love will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

May she rest in eternal peace.