Gale Simmons Leas

Gale Simmons Leas passed away peacefully on May 16, 2024, at the age of 68. She was born and grew up in Long Island, New York, but lived in Atlantic Beach, Florida for over forty years. She graduated from Duke University in 1977 and received her MBA from the University of North Florida in 1994. While in college, she met and fell in love with Michael Leas. They were married in Duke Chapel in 1978 and remained together until her death. 

Gale was a caring and loving person. She was an avid reader and was passionate about causes related to children and literacy. Gale was a member of the Board that established the Beaches Resource Center, and she served on that Board for many years. Gale was President of the PTSA at Fletcher High School and was also Chairman of the School Advisory Committee for Mayport Elementary.  She started and ran a charity devoted to providing free books for students at Mayport Elementary called “Read A Book, Get A Book”, volunteered to teach adult literacy, and was involved in many other charitable and community activities.

Gale loved traveling, visiting other places, and meeting new people. She went on trips throughout the United States as well as Europe, Asia, Australia, and South America. She particularly liked cruises and visiting the National Parks.

Gale is survived by her husband, her two children (David and Christine), her sister (Dyane Genovese), and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. She will be greatly missed by all.

A Memorial Service will be held at Quinn-Shalz Funeral Home, 3600 Third Street South in Jacksonville Beach, Florida at 1:00PM on Saturday, June 8, 2024.