Gail D Blandford

Gail Diana Blandford April 4, 1962 – December 20, 2025 “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.” — Ecclesiastes 3:1 A Time to Be Born On April 4, 1962, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Gwendolyn and the late Joseph Benton welcomed Gail Diana Benton into the world. Born and raised in West Philadelphia, Gail was the youngest and cherished by her big sister, Karen. A Time to Learn and Grow Gail received her early education at Samuel Gompers, Beeber, and proudly graduated from Overbrook High School, Class of 1980. She continued her education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania from 1980 to 1982, where she studied business, became a Kappa Sweetheart, and met the love of her life, Sylvester Blandford. Gail and Sylvester were united in marriage on June 26, 1983. From their union came two daughters, Khaira and Raquel, who were the center of her world. A Time to Work and Serve Later in life, Gail followed a calling to nursing, graduating from Howard Community College in 1998. She loved her career as a registered nurse and was deeply committed to caring and advocating for her patients—and for anyone who needed help. A Time to Love and Live Fully Gail grew up in the church, knowing the Lord, and carried her faith throughout her life. Having overcome many obstacles, she chose to always lead with forgiveness, love, and grace. Gail was truly the life of the party, known for her infectious, high-pitched voice and joyful spirit. Gail carried herself with unmistakable style and grace—her friends called her “Diva,” and a diva she was. Always fashionably late, yet unfailingly present when it truly mattered. Gail showed up for the people she loved exactly when they needed her. Gail loved music, traveling, and sitting peacefully by the ocean. Gail enjoyed playing pinochle with family and friends, rubbing heads and filling the room with laughter. She had a song for every occasion and advice that was thoughtful, researched, and always given with love. Gail was the listener, the teacher, and the trusted go-to for family and friends alike. Gail especially treasured time with her grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Gigi.” Gail loved her grandchildren in a way that was joyful, playful, and truly magical. She created worlds just for them—filled with laughter, imagination, and love. From adventures big and small, to long days spent playing in the pool, she had a gift for making ordinary moments unforgettable. She shared special songs, secret handshakes, code names, and special “Gigi secrets”—little pieces of her heart meant only for them. She made her grandchildren feel safe, seen, and deeply loved. Those moments, those traditions, and that love will live on in them always. Gail was a devoted and loving mother. She was vibrant, fun-loving, and deeply intentional in raising her daughters, Khaira and Raquel. Gail took great pride in nurturing their growth, celebrating their individuality, and supporting their development into confident, successful adults. She championed their dreams and rejoiced in every milestone, believing wholeheartedly in who they were becoming. Throughout her life, Gail called many places home: Philadelphia, California, New Jersey, Maryland, and Delaware. It was in Delaware where Gail and Sylvester proudly built their dream home from the ground up. This loving home was a place where the doors were always open. It became a gathering space for graduations, birthdays, celebrations, themed parties, and pool days—or simply a place to sit, listen to music, and talk about life. A Time to Be Silent, and a Time to Mourn On December 20, 2025, the Lord called Gail home. She leaves behind a lasting imprint of compassion, generosity, love, laughter, and kindness that will live on forever. A Time to Remember Sylvester, Khaira (Moses), Raquel (Brandon), Kyla, Kamryn, Malachi, Gwendolyn, Karen, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, godchildren, extended family, and dear friends will cherish her memory.

Gail D Blandford

April 4, 1962 - December 20, 2025