Gail Knetzger McEathron

Gail Knetzger McEathron, beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on August 14, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with dementia. Born on November 25, 1939, in St. Louis, Missouri, Gail was the cherished daughter of Carlos G. and Margaret Knetzger.

Gail's life was marked by her unwavering dedication to helping others and her vibrant spirit. She was a proud and active member of Alcoholics Anonymous. She was 51 years sober, and devoted countless hours sponsoring individuals and attending meetings twice a day, seven days a week, alongside her late husband, Henry Fajans. Together, they touched the lives of hundreds, offering steadfast support and hope to those on their journey to sobriety.

Gail was not only a pillar in her San Antonio community but also a loving and devoted family woman. She was predeceased by her parents, Wallace E McEathron, her husband Henry Fajans, her sisters Peggy Sears and June Edwards, and her granddaughter Jennifer Stroter Thom. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her children, Andrew and his wife Rochelle, Ed and his wife Linda, Candye McEathron, and Karen Stroter-Callahan. Her cherished grandson Tanner and great grandson Mason Thom and her close friends Kelly, Missy, Tiffany, Louise, Ailiya, Bonnie, Candice, Stacie, and Jennifer will also deeply miss her presence.

Her marriage to Wallace McEathron in 1963 marked the beginning of a life filled with cherished memories and adventures. Gail's competitive spirit shone brightly in her love for games such as Bridge and especially Scrabble, where she was the Grand Master of tiles and elite verbalist well into her dementia years. Her talent in needlepoint and cross-stitch adorned the walls of her home and those of her loved ones, each piece a testament to her patience and creativity. She was very fond of flowers, always stopping to admire their beauty and scent. A passionate reader, Gail found joy in the aisles of bookstores, ever eager to discover new stories and ideas.

Gail's family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff at The Blake in Waco, especially Judith, for their compassionate care. They also express their appreciation to Harbor Hospice for their support over the past month.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Gail's memory to the Dementia Society of America, your local animal shelter, or Friends of Bill please donate to your local CSO. Your contributions will honor Gail's memory, and support causes dear to her heart.

In remembering Gail, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with compassion, warmth, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known her.

On October 24th at 3 pm, a Celebration of Life for Gail will be held at St. Francis Episcopal Church, 4242 Bluemel Rd, San Antonio, Texas.