"Well done, good and faithful servant..." – Matthew 25:23

Gale Elizabeth Bennett was born on November 15, 1961, in New York City to the late John Allen Hawes and Eula Willette Hawes. Gale went home to be with the Lord on June 7, 2025, at Jefferson-Einstein Montgomery Hospital in Norristown, PA.

In the 1970s, Gale's family moved from New York City to Westfield, New Jersey, where she resided until she graduated from Westfield Senior High School in 1979. Gale first attended Bluefield State College in Bluefield, West Virginia, and later graduated from High Point University in High Point, North Carolina, with a B.S. in Business Administration in 2002. While in West Virginia, she met and married the love of her life, former husband Robert L. Bennett. Together, they built a beautiful life and were blessed with their daughter, Tia Chanel Bennett, in 1987.

Gale devoted over 30 years of service in the healthcare and education sectors. She became employed at Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem, N.C., as a medical unit secretary for approximately 10 years. After moving to Pennsylvania, she spent her last 14 years working as an administrative assistant at the Norristown Area School District. Gale's work ethic and spirit of excellence did not go unnoticed; she received accolades for outstanding service and contributions. Gale was beloved at work. Her presence made students, staff, families, and colleagues feel welcomed, valued, and connected. No matter where Gale worked, she was indeed a credit to the organization.

A woman of compassion, Gale personally founded a women's ministry wherein she visited elderly nursing home residents, bringing comfort, joy, and friendship. Gale wanted them to know that they belonged to the Lord. Gale was also an active voice in her community. She worked closely with local leaders, most notably serving as a loyal and devoted volunteer for Pennsylvania State Representative Greg Scott. Her work on his campaign and her service as a community liaison demonstrated her unwavering belief in making a difference.

As a young woman, Gale accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior and was baptized. As her faith grew, it became the foundation upon which she built a life of service, love, and purpose. She was an active member and faithful servant in church when she lived in the South, as a member of Newness of Life Family Worship Center and Praise Assembly Church, both in Winston-Salem, N.C. In Pennsylvania, she worshipped at West Oak Lane Church in Philadelphia, PA, and more recently joined Macedonia Ministries in Norristown, PA, until her transition. Over the years, Gale participated in various ministries—including the choir, dance, and communications. Gale faithfully used her gifts to uplift others and glorify God. Even as her health began to decline, she remained hopeful and leaned on her unshakable faith.

Gale had many passions. She was the queen of the 4th of July barbecues, where family and friends gathered to enjoy her cooking, laughter, and fellowship. Gale was an avid gardener who took great pride in her yard and especially loved being surrounded by the beautiful flowers she meticulously planted. She also loved traveling, attending jazz festivals, restaurant dining, and, last but not least, fashion. Gale always dressed to impress, carrying herself with style and dignity.

Gale's vibrance made her a magnet for people. She naturally connected to people through her smile, a kind word, or her contagious laughter. Gale made people feel seen, heard, and valued. She carried a light within her that could brighten any room, and her radiant presence was a true blessing to all who had the joy of knowing her.

Gale's most loyal companion was her cherished shih tzu, "Bud." Gale and Bud were inseparable, walking through their neighborhood side by side—Bud often dressed in charming outfits that matched Gale's flair for style.

Gale is now resting in the arms of her Savior, reunited with her father, John Allen Hawes ("Johnny Boy"); and her beloved brother, Johnny Allen Hawes ("Bootsy"). She leaves to cherish her memory: her loving daughter, Tia Chanel Bennett; her mother, Eula Willette Hawes; her brother, Phillip Hawes (Adrienne Hawes); her sisters, Lynda Victoria "Vikki" Wells and Ethel Mae Wells; a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends.

Gale's life is a testament to faith, love, and service. She walked boldly in her purpose, clothed in grace, and filled with the Holy Spirit. Her legacy will live on in those she touched.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00noon Monday, June 30, 2025 at Agape Faith Clemmons. Interment will be held at 2:30pm in Parklawn Memorial Gardens. The family visitation will be held from 10:00am until 12:00noon on Monday at the Church.