Gayle Owens

Gayle Owens (nee Monahan), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, just days shy of her 80th birthday. Born on January 28, 1946 to Harold and Betty Monahan, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Gayle spent her life spreading warmth, joy, and love to those around her.

Gayle dedicated many years of her life to working with children as a line cook at Milford High School where her warm smile and comforting calm presence made a lasting impression on students and staff alike. Her greatest joy was caring for her loved ones. At home, she was not only known for her culinary skills-excelling in the art of baking and cooking-but also for her passion for her flowers and flower garden, offering a touch of beauty and care in every dish she prepared and every flower she nurtured. Gayle had made many traditions for her family through the years, and they will be continued by her children and grandson, Jaxson. Gayle also worked for Kroger Company for many years at the salad bar in Milford where she made many friends throughout the community.

A devoted wife to her beloved husband, James M. Owens, Gayle celebrated 59 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Craig (Mandy) Owens and Staci Ciaccio who now carry forward her legacy of love. Gayle was overjoyed by her role as a grandma or as she preferred, "Mimi" to Jaxson Owen Ciaccio, cherishing every moment spent together for 16 years. Jaxson truly was the light of her life.

Gayle is also survived by her siblings, Jack (Donna) Monahan, Pat (Charlie) Barnett, and Janet (Rick) Hackers. She was preceded in death by her son, James M Owens Jr, her parents Harold and Betty Monahan and her brother Robert Ott.

In celebration of Gayle's life, a gathering will occur Wednesday, March 4th from 6-8pm at Evans Funeral Home in Milford, Ohio. A memorial Mass will be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Thursday, March 5th at 10:00 am. Following the Mass, her private internment will take place at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest in a serene and loving environment.

The family has asked that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to the Foundation for Women's Cancer or the Alzheimer's Association.

Gayle will be deeply missed but always remembered for her smile, unwavering love, kindness, and the many lives she touched.