Gail M. (Mishou) Rand

Gail Marie Rand, 88, of Old Saybrook, CT , wife of William (Bill) C. Rand, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, May 16, 2021.  Gail was born in Old Town, ME on February 9, 1933, and was the daughter of the late Valerie and Wilson J. Mishou.

At the time of her mother Valerie’s death, Gail was three years old.  She was entrusted into the loving hands of her late aunt and uncle, Laura and Harold Russell of West Haven, CT where she was cherished and nurtured as she grew up.  She attended Catholic school most of her younger years and finished her schooling at Ansonia High School in 1950 where she played basketball.  After graduation, she began working for Southern New England Telephone Company in New Haven, CT.   As a little girl, she would travel to Old Orchard Beach and Old Town, ME to spend her summers.  There, she would be reunited with her father, two sisters, and extended family.  It was there that she met and married the love of her life on August 18, 1951.  Soon after, Gail and Bill moved to Hartford and eventually settled in East Hampton where they raised their five children.  Throughout the years, they traveled to many places around the country which included going back to their hometown in Maine.  Formerly of East Hampton, they retired to Old Saybrook where they have magnificent views of Long Island Sound and beautiful sunsets.

Most important in her life was her family.  Gail and Bill had five children, fourteen grandchildren, and eleven great grandchildren who were all showered with unconditional love and affection.  She enjoyed shopping, square dancing, bowling, playing setback and bunko.  For many years, Gail worked at IGA and Thatcher’s Pharmacy in East Hampton.  Over the years, Gail became friends with anyone she met, and was often called Mom or Gramma by many that knew her.  The Christmas season was always her favorite holiday as the house would be filled with family, laughter and fun.  Gail had a wonderful sense of humor and always enjoyed a good party.   The meaning of her name was “joyful and happy” which was a perfect fit.   

Gail is survived by her devoted husband William (Bill) C. Rand of 70 years; her children, daughter Kathleen Erlandson and  partner David Carrero of East Hampton and Middletown, daughter Valerie Stockburger and son-in-law Donald Richards of Kensington, son William (Wayne) Rand and daughter-in-law Maria Foss-Rand of Old Saybrook, daughter Mary Beth Julian and son-in-law Daniel Julian of Colchester, daughter Cheryl Rand of East Hampton; sister Lois Ouellette of Davie, FL, brother-in-law Joseph Ferrero of Pittsburgh, PA; thirteen grandchildren, Jason Stockburger, David Erlandson, Scott Erlandson, Melanie Warren, Meaghan Rand, Steven Rand, Ashley Tuchmann, Taylor Rand, Arden Rand, Emilie Ackerman, Olivia Ackerman, Jenna Gail Julian, and Ally Julian;  eleven great grandchildren, Talan and Kayl Stockburger, Wade and Keily Erlandson, Neilly, Wyatt and Bridey Erlandson, Grady and Mason Warren, Grayson Nix, and Freya Tuchmann; several nieces and longtime friends of 64 years Michael and Theresa Brady of East Hampton. 

Gail was predeceased by her younger sister Valerie Ferrero, granddaughter Anita Ackerman, and brother-in-law Raynard Ouellette.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to part-time caregiver, Marla Robinson, who provided much love, amusement and support to Gail.

Private funeral arrangements are being made by Spencer Funeral Home, East Hampton, CT.   A celebration of Gail’s life will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. 

To leave online condolences please visit www.spencerfuneralhomeinc.com.

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