Gail E. Cody

Gail Cody passed away Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, at Methodist Hospital. Born Jan. 15, 1943, in Omaha, Nebr., she was the daughter of the late Gilbert and Isabel Enquist. 

Gail graduated from Benson High School in 1961. After completing her undergrad, she taught second grade at Paddock Road Elementary. She returned to UNO to complete her master’s degree and teach classes for undergraduate teaching candidates. 

Gail stepped away from teaching to marry and start a family in 1972. She loved being a mother and enjoyed staying home with her young children. In 1985 Gail returned to Omaha, and raised three healthy, brilliant young children in a supportive, loving home as a single mother. She provided for her family as a dedicated professional educator. 

 After teaching 5th grade at Walnut Hill Elementary for 8 years, Gail worked in Peer Support, mentoring new teachers around the district. In 2001 Gail transitioned into a position at Mount View Elementary as the Curriculum Facilitator. She held that position until she retired in 2010, at the age of 67. Gail is remembered fondly by many of the students and teachers she supported.

 After retiring, Gail volunteered in her daughter’s classroom teaching reading groups every day for three years. Then, she poured herself into caring for her grandchildren, designating a different day of the week to each. She filled her house with toys, and all their favorite foods. Her grandchildren truly enjoyed her love and attention; she was a fun and devoted grandmother. 

 Gail also enjoyed taking care of her house and remained independent throughout her life. She was raking leaves and feeding the birds only days before she passed. She was a cherished member of her neighborhood community, looking after her neighbors and being looked after in return. 

 Gail was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church in Benson, where she faithfully attended. She was a kind and generous spirit who will be remembered and missed by many. 

 Those left to cherish her memory, include her son Kevin and wife Amanda Cody with sons James, Joseph and Michael; her daughter Stephanie Cody-Goossen and husband Jason Goossen with children Nina, Elliott and Breanne; and her daughter Megan and husband John Tripp with son Ethan; her sister, Barbara and husband Robert Manasek with children Amy Ellison and Joe Manasek.