Gail Downs

BANGOR-Gail Claudia Downs, 84, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and sister passed away peacefully on July 18, 2025, after a long-fought battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Gail was raised in Mexico, Maine, the oldest of 6 children. She was 8 years older than her closest sibling and often filled the role as caregiver after school in her teenage years so her mother could work before her father got home.

Gail raised her own three children in Rumford, Maine and later Windham, Maine.

Gail was a life-long learner. She earned both a bachelor's degree and master's degree from the University of Maine System. She was a librarian and teacher and completed her career in education research at the University of Maine at Orono. Gail was passionate about education, nature and mathematics. She had quick wit often expressing humor with the use of puns. Gail loved teaching her children and grandchildren how to play games, especially math games (showing no mercy).

It was through the love of the outdoors and nature that she met and married her husband, George Elliott, in 2003. George and Gail made their home in Bangor, Maine and lived life to the fullest. George cared for Gail as Alzheimer's progressed. His devotion allowed her to live at home until the last few months of life.

Anyone who knew Gail knew how much she loved being outside, tending her gardens and going on hikes and walks. She could outwalk anyone even in her later years.

Gail is survived by her loving husband, George Elliott; her three children, Candice Casey, Kimberly Bridgham (Jim Gorman) and Michael Downs (Rachel Bland Downs); 8 grandchildren, JT, Crystal, Caroline, Wyatt, Liam, Morgan, Elizabeth and Connor; her brother, Carlie; and three sisters, Dorrie, Anne and Debra. She is also survived by George's 4 children and their families. Gail is predeceased by her parents, Claudia and Carroll Casey; and her brother, Mike.

Gail's family would like to thank the staff at the memory care unit of Dirigo Pines and the team at Bristol Hospice who played an integral role in the quality of her life in her last few months.

A private family gathering will be held to celebrate her life of courage, curiosity, kindness and humor.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Gail's memory to the Maine Audubon 20 Gilsland Farm Road Falmouth, Maine 04105 or at Maineaudubon.org.