Gail Tacy, Jr. Obituary

Gail George Tacy Jr., age 78, of Staunton, passed away Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at Augusta Health in Fishersville.

He was born August 15, 1946 in Elkins, WV, a son of the late Gail George and Mary Martha (See) Tacy.

Gail Tacy was a dedicated educator, lifelong farmer, and devoted family man whose life was deeply rooted in the values of hard work, service, and community. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science from West Virginia University, laying the foundation for a career that would blend his passion for agriculture with a commitment to education. He went on to pursue a Master’s Degree in Agriculture and Animal Science from Virginia Polytechnic Institute.

Mr. Tacy spent his entire adult life operating Tacy Farms, where he cultivated not only crops and livestock but also a deep respect for the land and rural traditions. In 1968, he began his teaching career at Highland High School in Monterey, Virginia. It was there that he met the love of his life, with whom he would share 57 wonderful years of marriage.

After completing his graduate studies, Mr. Tacy and his family moved to Mill Creek, West Virginia, where he accepted a full-time position as a biology teacher at Tygarts Valley High School. His dedication to education and leadership eventually led him to serve as an administrator within Randolph County Schools, where he continued to support fellow educators.

Following his retirement from the school system, Mr. Tacy embarked on a new chapter as a salesman for International Buses, demonstrating his versatility and work ethic. In full retirement, he and his wife embraced a life of seasonal travel—spending winters in sunny Daytona Beach, Florida, and summers in the scenic town of Staunton, Virginia.

A proud Master Mason, Mr. Tacy was honored with a 50-year pin in recognition of his long-standing commitment to the Masonic fraternity. He previously held membership in both Highland Lodge #110 and Randolph Lodge No. 55 in Beverly, West Virginia, and ultimately transferred his membership to Staunton Lodge #13 upon relocating in 2013.

Beyond his professional and civic accomplishments, Mr. Tacy was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in farming, hunting, and spending time with his family. His legacy is one of integrity, dedication, and love—a life well-lived and deeply cherished by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mary Reefa (Wilson) Tacy of Staunton; two daughters, Cheryl “Missy” Tacy of Staunton, and Shelby Gail (Tacy) Noel and husband, Charles “Blu” of Staunton; son, Joseph Tacy and husband, Jeremiah Smathers of Beaumont, Texas; grandchildren, Colby Berry and wife, Caroline, Austin Murphy, Dominic Noel and Dylan Noel, all of Staunton; as well as his special canine, Allie.

A Celebration of Life will be held 2 p.m., Sunday, June 29, 2025 at Olivet Presbyterian Church, 1019 Richmond Road, Staunton, with pastor Lee Thomas officiating. The family will receive friends following the service during a time of fellowship in the church social hall.

Additionally, a graveside committal service and inurnment will take place 12 noon, Monday, June 30, 2025 in Brick Church Cemetery, Bell Church Road, Huttonsville, West Virginia.

Memorial donations may be made to Brick Church Cemetery, P.O. Box 202, Mill Creek, WV 26280.