Gayle M. Hughes, age 85, of Selbyville, DE, formerly of Crofton, MD, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Friday, May 30, 2025, in the comfort of her own home.

Born in Ridley Park, PA, on July 29, 1939, Gayle was the daughter of the late Vincent N. Gallagher and the late Marie (McIntyre) Gallagher. She was a devoted homemaker and mother to her loving husband and three children. After her children were grown, she began working for Dr. Sroka's office in Crofton, MD, where she served as the office manager before her retirement.

Once Gayle and her husband, Tom, moved to Delaware, she began to volunteer at the Elks in Ocean City, MD. She served in several capacities at the Elks, from working in the kitchen to waitressing and scheduling. Gayle was a giver and enjoyed helping and taking care of others. She enjoyed living near the beach and loved to dance.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her three siblings, Vincent Gallagher, Jr., Patricia Gallagher, and Neal Gallagher. She is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Thomas M. Hughes; three children, Michelle Hotem and her husband, Jeff of Seven Valleys, PA, Thomas M. Hughes, Jr. and his wife, Lisa of Marriottsville, MD, and Sean T. Hughes of Washington, D.C.; four grandchildren, Jack Hotem, Riley Hotem, Griffin Hughes, and Nolan Hughes; a brother, Gary Gallagher of North Carolina, and several nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held from 10-11 AM on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at the Ocean View Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 38040 Muddy Neck Rd., Ocean View, DE 19970, where a prayer service will begin at 11 AM. Interment will be held privately.