Gail A. Christensen

Gail Ann Christensen, 68, of Galesburg, Illinois, formerly of Sleepy Hollow, Illinois, died unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

Gail was born June 24, 1958 in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Edward Joseph and Mary Lou (Bushbaum) Zander. She graduated from Sacred Heart of Mary High School in Rolling Meadows, Illinois.

Gail married Robert J. Christensen on September 30, 1995 in West Dundee, Illinois. He survives as does one daughter, Madeline (Morgan Shaw) Wood of Galesburg, and one grandson, Carter Shaw. Gail is also survived by one brother, Craig (Maureen) Zander of Wilmington, North Carolina, one sister, Beth (Bernie) O’Neill of Volo, Illinois, four nieces, Carolyn, Meredith, Megan, and Michaela, and her beloved dog, Sadie. Gail is preceded in death by her parents.

Gail worked as a decorator at J.C. Penney in the Chicago area for many years. After retirement, Gail and Bob decided to move to Galesburg to be closer to their daughter, Madeline. Gail always put others first, from the elaborate birthday parties she threw her daughter to the pictures she framed for family and friends. She loved all holidays, especially Christmas, and of course, decorating. She enjoyed spending time tending to her flower gardens, boating, and her house at Lake Bracken. An avid music lover, Gail enjoyed attending concerts and was at her proudest while listening to her daughter play flute. She loved babysitting and felt lucky to consider Sara O’Brien and Marlo Pautz her bonus daughters and Jenson and Weston her honorary grandsons.

Visitation will be 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg with funeral services following at 1:30 p.m. Rev. Dr. Scott Harris will officiate. Interment will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to the United School Band. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.