Gail A (Pastore) Mcneil

Rotterdam - Gail Ann McNeil (Pastore), 80, passed away Thursday February 11, 2021. Born in Batavia, NY, she was the daughter of the late Victor and Ethel (Valerio) Pastore. Gail was a 1958 graduate of Notre Dame High School in Batavia, NY and a 1962 graduate of Nazareth University and Siena College for her Masters. Gail taught both Social Studies and English at Mohonasen Central Schools for over 20 years. Known for her passion for education and dedicated to her students, Gail created the Young American’s Club and bravely took many students on extended trips to Washington DC, San Diego, Disneyland, Disney World and European tours. Always in charge in what she did and always with love and learning of the history, civics and values she taught in the classroom. Always by her side was her late husband Peter (Dad) and often with her children and grandchildren. She was fortunate to have taught many generations and always found friends and former students wherever she went. Gail was also very active in her profession, being part of and founding members of many professional organizations. Gail had a strong faith and shared her many blessings to all she touched. Gail was deeply devoted, dedicated and loved by her family. She taught us all the meaning of selflessness and unconditional love. She will be remembered as a kind, loving and caring force of nature by all who knew her. Her greatest joy was her family and all of the family gatherings, big or small. Gail was the widow of her beloved husband of 55 years, Peter McNeil. She is survived by her children Kathleen McNeil and her spouse John B. Lepes; Maureen Galofaro and her spouse Guiseppe (Joe); Matthew McNeil and his spouse Maureen McNeil. Also by her grandchildren John P. Lepes, Rachel Lepes, Marina Strang (James), Nicole Slawinski (Kevin), Diana Galofaro, Angelo Galofaro, Brendan McNeil, Liam McNeil as well as her great-grandchildren Charlotte Strang and William Strang. The family extends their heartfelt thanks you to Judi Smith for her love, friendship and care and Brookdale Niskayuna for giving her happiness and peace in her new home. Calling hours will be held Monday February 15th from 4-7pm at DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home 1605 Helderberg Ave., Rotterdam. Masks must be worn and all Covid-19 precautions will be adhered to. Funeral services will begin 10:15 am Tuesday at the funeral home followed by an 11 am Mass of Christian Burial at St. Paul the Apostle Church. To leave a condolence or message for the family please visit demarcostonefuneralhome.com Memorial contributions may be made to Notre Dame - Bishop Gibbons School 2600 Albany St., Schenectady, NY 12304 or the Dominican Retreat House 1945 Union St., Niskayuna, NY 12309.