Mary “Gayle” Harris, of Boydton, VA, passed away in her home due to health complications on Sunday, October 8, 2023 at the age of 62. She was born August 2, 1961 in South Boston, VA. Gayle is survived by her parents, Harold and Louise Harris of Boydton, VA; her siblings Tom (and Gail) and Mike (and Theresa) Harris; beloved nieces and nephews: Elizabeth, Christina, and Timmy Harris, and Michelle (and Zach) Lenhart; and two great nephews Paul and Jude Lenhart. She also is survived by many dear friends, cousins, family members, and a large contingent of her “lake family” that are too numerous to list.
Gayle worked for many years as a head nurse for the Virginia Department of Corrections at several prisons before retiring in April 2023. Beyond her dedication to her profession, she enjoyed many other pastimes and passions. First and foremost was sharing time with her friends and family. She cared for her parents daily. Many weekends, especially in the summer, she could be found hosting friends and family for gatherings near the lake, with her favorite being “Camp Gayle”, a yearly bonding time with her nieces and nephews filled with sun, fun, and lots of food. Gayle loved to go out to eat, ideally for fresh seafood, especially with her “sissy” Debbie Presson and “nonnie” Donna Freeman.
In addition, Gayle loved the holidays, particularly Christmas. Her home was decorated with Santa Clauses year round, and much like Santa, she showered her loved ones with gifts and holiday cheer. She was also an avid reader, preferably of thrillers and mysteries, and these novels filled the walls of her home and often accompanied her on beach vacations. Her life welcomed and enriched all who were fortunate enough to know her.
A celebration of her life will take place on Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:00 pm with visitation to occur at 2:00 pm at Wood Funeral Service in Chase City, followed by a brief graveside ceremony at Easter’s United Methodist Church in Boydton.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to the Boydton Fire Department at P.O. Box 8, Boydton, VA 23917, and Boydton Life Station at P.O. Box 182, Boydton, VA 23917. Wood Funeral Service is serving the family. Condolences may be expressed at www.woodfuneralservice.com