1954
Gail Mary McGough Maduena
2024
Gail Mary McGough Maduena
October 26, 1954 — April 15, 2024
In Loving Memory of Gail Mary McGough-Madueña, who faced ALS with unwavering bravery, strength and grace until she transitioned from life to eternal life on April 15, 2024. She passed peacefully, surrounded by her devoted husband, loving children and dearest friend, at her home in Placitas, New Mexico.
Gail was born on October 26, 1954, in Wiesbaden, Germany, to Major General (RET.)Edward A. McGough III and Romaine S. McGough. Her early years were filled with exciting experiences as she traveled the world going from base to base with her parents and three sisters. She found great joy in joining her mother on trips to many exotic locations when she was young, often recounting their escapades to her husband and children. She and her sister Nancy spent their high school years in Spain, touring Europe and making many mischievous memories along the way. Gail eventually settled in New Mexico, where she attended the University of New Mexico and made lifelong friends.
After college Gail pursued her passion for chemistry by taking jobs in different locations in the southwest that took her on many adventures. She eventually returned to New Mexico where she began a career with New Mexico Scientific Laboratory as a Forensic Chemist. She also worked with the New Mexico State Environment Department as an environmentalist. As a part of the science community in New Mexico Gail enjoyed serving as a judge for district and state level science fairs, sharing her passion for science with young people. Her early professional life truly reflected her commitment to science and the environment.
In 1981, Gail found and married her soulmate, James Madueña, and they embarked on a journey of love and partnership that lasted a lifetime. Together, they established their home in Placitas, New Mexico, where they built a successful business and raised three remarkable children. They built a beautiful home where they spent many wonderful hours sitting on the porch enjoying laughter and family. Time as a family was always a priority in Gail and Jim’s lives and together, they created a strong foundation of love and dedication for their children. Whether it was gathering around the dinner table for lively conversations or simply sharing quiet moments together, Gail cherished the value of quality time spent with loved ones. Gail’s commitment to fostering a strong family bond served as a beacon of warmth and security that will continue on in the hearts of her family.
As a mother, Gail bestowed upon her children a childhood filled with wonder, exploration, love, and compassion. Her patience and loving guidance continued as her children grew and created families of their own. Her four grandchildren brought immense joy to her life, completing her circle of love and happiness.
Gail found solace and joy in her garden, creating beautiful spaces for local and migrating birds. She loved music and singing, a passion she shared with her mother and sister Ann. Among her greatest joys in life were the treasured summer vacations spent at the family cabin in Minnesota, exploring the wonders and serene beauty of the Boundary Waters with her beloved husband, children and eventually grandchildren.
Gail's intelligence, strength, and positivity touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was preceded in death by her parents, oldest sister, in-laws, brother-in-law, and other beloved family members.
She leaves behind her devoted husband of 43 years, James G. Madueña, daughters; Mara M. McGough- Madueña Muchow (spouse Cody Muchow), Alison McGough Madueña (spouse Reid McLean), son; James A. McGough-Madueña (spouse Marissa Trujillo); her cherished grandchildren Ainslie, Henry, Grace, and Michael. Gail is also survived by her sisters; Nancy McGough (spouse Sean Green) and Anne McGough, Brother in law Dennis; Lenzion, Sister in law ;Sherelyn Madueña, Brothers in law ;Chuck Madueña and Paul Madueña, dear friend;Carrie McPhee(spouse Jim McPhee;numerous wonderful nieces and nephews;as well as extended family and friends.
Gail Mary McGough-Madueña’s legacy of love, dedication, perseverance, and humor will provide comfort as we remember her. Gail was the epitome of devotion and love, cherished as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend. Her grace, independence, kindness, and generosity endeared her to all who knew her and these qualities will live on in her children and grandchildren.
Gails’ journey on this earth may have come to an end, but her spirit will continue to inspire and fill the hearts of all those who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace in heaven alongside her mother, father and sister.
Services to honor and celebrate Gail Mary McGough-Madueña’s life will be held on June 1, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Las Placitas Presbyterian Church followed by a reception in the congregation hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to ALS New Mexico.
Gail was born on October 26, 1954, in Wiesbaden, Germany, to Major General (RET.)Edward A. McGough III and Romaine S. McGough. Her early years were filled with exciting experiences as she traveled the world going from base to base with her parents and three sisters. She found great joy in joining her mother on trips to many exotic locations when she was young, often recounting their escapades to her husband and children. She and her sister Nancy spent their high school years in Spain, touring Europe and making many mischievous memories along the way. Gail eventually settled in New Mexico, where she attended the University of New Mexico and made lifelong friends.
After college Gail pursued her passion for chemistry by taking jobs in different locations in the southwest that took her on many adventures. She eventually returned to New Mexico where she began a career with New Mexico Scientific Laboratory as a Forensic Chemist. She also worked with the New Mexico State Environment Department as an environmentalist. As a part of the science community in New Mexico Gail enjoyed serving as a judge for district and state level science fairs, sharing her passion for science with young people. Her early professional life truly reflected her commitment to science and the environment.
In 1981, Gail found and married her soulmate, James Madueña, and they embarked on a journey of love and partnership that lasted a lifetime. Together, they established their home in Placitas, New Mexico, where they built a successful business and raised three remarkable children. They built a beautiful home where they spent many wonderful hours sitting on the porch enjoying laughter and family. Time as a family was always a priority in Gail and Jim’s lives and together, they created a strong foundation of love and dedication for their children. Whether it was gathering around the dinner table for lively conversations or simply sharing quiet moments together, Gail cherished the value of quality time spent with loved ones. Gail’s commitment to fostering a strong family bond served as a beacon of warmth and security that will continue on in the hearts of her family.
As a mother, Gail bestowed upon her children a childhood filled with wonder, exploration, love, and compassion. Her patience and loving guidance continued as her children grew and created families of their own. Her four grandchildren brought immense joy to her life, completing her circle of love and happiness.
Gail found solace and joy in her garden, creating beautiful spaces for local and migrating birds. She loved music and singing, a passion she shared with her mother and sister Ann. Among her greatest joys in life were the treasured summer vacations spent at the family cabin in Minnesota, exploring the wonders and serene beauty of the Boundary Waters with her beloved husband, children and eventually grandchildren.
Gail's intelligence, strength, and positivity touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was preceded in death by her parents, oldest sister, in-laws, brother-in-law, and other beloved family members.
She leaves behind her devoted husband of 43 years, James G. Madueña, daughters; Mara M. McGough- Madueña Muchow (spouse Cody Muchow), Alison McGough Madueña (spouse Reid McLean), son; James A. McGough-Madueña (spouse Marissa Trujillo); her cherished grandchildren Ainslie, Henry, Grace, and Michael. Gail is also survived by her sisters; Nancy McGough (spouse Sean Green) and Anne McGough, Brother in law Dennis; Lenzion, Sister in law ;Sherelyn Madueña, Brothers in law ;Chuck Madueña and Paul Madueña, dear friend;Carrie McPhee(spouse Jim McPhee;numerous wonderful nieces and nephews;as well as extended family and friends.
Gail Mary McGough-Madueña’s legacy of love, dedication, perseverance, and humor will provide comfort as we remember her. Gail was the epitome of devotion and love, cherished as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend. Her grace, independence, kindness, and generosity endeared her to all who knew her and these qualities will live on in her children and grandchildren.
Gails’ journey on this earth may have come to an end, but her spirit will continue to inspire and fill the hearts of all those who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace in heaven alongside her mother, father and sister.
Services to honor and celebrate Gail Mary McGough-Madueña’s life will be held on June 1, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Las Placitas Presbyterian Church followed by a reception in the congregation hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to ALS New Mexico.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Gail Mary McGough Maduena, please visit our flower store.
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