Gail Hennecke

Gail Patricia Hennecke, 75, of Cape Girardeau died Monday, March 11, 2024, at Saint Francis Medical Center.

She was born Oct. 16, 1948, in St. Louis to Raymond Elliott and Dorothy Louise Weis Tibbles. She and William “Bill” Wayne Hennecke were married Oct. 16, 1998. He preceded her in death Feb. 25, 2022.

Gail was a 1966 graduate of Cape Girardeau Central High School. She received a bachelor’s degree from Southeast Missouri State University as a non-traditional student at the age of 40.

She worked for Cape Winnelson and later at Anthem as a claims processor.

She was very supportive of her children and served as a Girl Scout and Cub Scout Leader. She loved her children and grandchildren, and she liked to text. She also enjoyed genealogy and crafting, especially making wreaths.

Gail was a member of Hanover Lutheran Church in Cape Girardeau, Beta Sigma Phi and one of the Cape Garden clubs.

Survivors include her son, Chris Smith of Ballwin; daughter, Jackie McMahel of Winter Garden, Florida; stepson, the Rev. William Wayne Hennecke Jr. of Kimberling City; stepdaughter, Danielle (Gary) Poyner of Cape Girardeau; three grandchildren, Tyler McMahel and Trey McMahel of Winter Garden and David Smith of Ballwin; two stepgrandchildren, Ava Grace Poyner of Cape Girardeau and Kyla McMahel of Apopka, Florida; and great-grandchild, Brennan McMahel.

Gail was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

Friends may call from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, March 14, at Hanover Lutheran Church.

Funeral will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 14, at the church, with the Rev. Rod Benkendorf officiating. Entombment will be at Cape County Memorial Park Mausoleum in Cape Girardeau.

Memorial contributions may be given to Hanover Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice.

Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.