Gayle Elizabeth Smith, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on September 5, 2026, in Ridgecrest, California, at the age of 76.

Gayle was a loving and devoted mother to Thomas Otto, Stepmother to Lawrence (Corrine) Maples, Lisa (Jeff) Simolon, and Danielle Horgan, and Grandmother.

Gayle worked at Drummond Medical Center before shifting her career and becoming a Defense

Contractor with Comarco and CTA, where she spent many years building relationships and making an impact through her work.

Outside of work, Gayle enjoyed living life on her own terms. She loved riding her Harley-Davidson, traveling, and making memories along the way. She also had a special love for her cats, who were an important part of her life and home.

Gayle is survived by her children, her brother Jeriel “Buck” and his wife Jerry Ann, as well as many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly. She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Charles “Chuck” Lee Maples, who passed away in 2005, and are now reunited in eternal love.

Gayle will be remembered for the life she lived, the memories she created, and the love she shared with her family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Ridgecrest Animal Shelter. Gayle had a fierce love for her feline friends, and supporting animals in need would be a meaningful way to honor her memory.