Virginia Gayle Goodsell

Gayle Goodsell, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully at her home in Fruit Heights, Utah, on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at the age of 80. Born on September 30, 1944, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Gayle was the cherished daughter of Bruce W. Hollingshead and Virginia E. Herrin Hollingshead. As the eldest of five siblings, Gayle's warmth, wisdom, and enduring love created a foundation of unity and strength for her family.

Raised in Bountiful, Utah, Gayle attended Bountiful High School, where she met the love of her life, Michael Lewis Goodsell. Their bond became the cornerstone of a remarkable life together, beginning with their marriage and sealing on November 22, 1963, in the Salt Lake Temple. Gayle’s faith as a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was evident in all aspects of her life, shaping her deep commitment to family, service, and community.

An accomplished ballroom dancer, Gayle trained extensively at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio, where her grace and discipline earned her recognition. Her love for beauty and culture extended beyond the dance floor; she and Michael lived in extraordinary places such as Germany, Greece, and England, enriching their lives with travel and treasured memories from around the world.

Gayle was a loving and devoted mother to her three sons, whom she considered her greatest blessings. She dedicated herself to creating a nurturing home filled with love, laughter, and the delicious aromas of her cooking and baking. Beyond her role as a mother, she pursued her passion for family history, spending countless hours researching her ancestors and performing temple work. Her professional endeavors included meaningful roles at Beehive Clothing, Deseret Book, Hallmark, Temple Square, and Mrs. Cavanaugh’s Chocolates, where her kindness and professionalism left a lasting impact.

Despite facing numerous health challenges, Gayle exemplified resilience, courage, and an unwavering spirit. Her radiant smile, compassionate heart, and ability to make everyone feel welcomed and valued will forever be remembered by all who knew her.

Gayle is preceded in death by her parents, her son Christopher Michael Goodsell, her brother Bruce Nyland Hollingshead, and her sister Jacqueline Dawn Bolinder. She is survived by her devoted husband, Michael L. Goodsell; her sons Marcus, Troy, and Ashton Goodsell; her daughters Elizabeth and Sariah Goodsell; her grandchildren Allison Goodsell and Roland Goodsell; two great-grandchildren; and her sisters Florie Colleen (Dean) Anderson and Joan Wyvonne Thomas. She is also fondly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Gayle’s legacy is one of love, grace, and unwavering faith. Her influence will be felt for generations, and her example will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Graveside services will be held Friday December 6, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Lindquist’s Memorial Park at Layton, 1867 N. Fairfield Rd., Layton, Utah. Family and friends may visit from 12:30 to 1:45 prior to the graveside at Lindquist’s Layton Mortuary, 1867 N. Fairfield Rd., Layton, Utah.

 Interment, Lindquist’s Memorial Park at Layton.