Gale (Argetsinger) Stockton, 88, of Ithaca, NY passed away among family, holding her husband’s hand, on January 3, 2026. She was receiving hospice services under the warm care of staff at Bridges Cornell Heights.

Gale was born in Ithaca, NY on June 16, 1937 to Merton and Viola (Niemi) Argetsinger. In high school, Gale was a cheerleader, member of the chorus, and French hornist in the band. She was also the pianist for the school’s Dance Band, which is where she caught the eye of fellow band member and saxophonist, Neil Stockton. They formed an enduring bond and were married on February 7, 1959.

Excelling in academics, particularly mathematics, Gale graduated Salutatorian of Lansing Central School’s class of 1955. She received her bachelor’s degree at New York State Teachers College in Albany (SUNY Albany), where she was a member of the Kappa Delta Sorority and Pi Omega Pi, a national honor society for business education.

Gale taught business-related subjects at the high school level in Buffalo, and later in Weedsport, NY. After a move to Connecticut for Neil’s career, she left teaching to focus her time on her family. They would move many more times, including to California, where Gale studied painting with artist Miguel Angel Ramirez. She specialized in portraits and landscapes using watercolor or oil paint. Although she sold many of her paintings, giving them as gifts to family and friends gratified her the most.

Gale was also a gifted seamstress and had a rare combination of patience, precision, and an artist’s eye. One of her most ambitious projects was designing and making her daughter’s wedding gown, along with all seven gowns in the bridal party. The bridal gown was made from silk organza imported from Switzerland. The skirt was gathered from a dropped waist and formed a cathedral train outlined with Swiss embroidery and hundreds of sequins and seed pearls were handsewn throughout.

Gale used her many talents to express her love for others, and she did this modestly. She was a creative powerhouse, whether working with fabric and textiles, painting in oils or watercolors or simply baking. Above all, she was most happy in the presence of her family, particularly her grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Neil Stockton; son Craig Stockton; daughter Tamera Stockton Gundersen (Dan); granddaughter Jenna Gundersen; grandson Joel Stockton; granddaughter Jessica Higgins (Justin Blake) and their children Lilyanna and Zandria. She is also survived by her brother Gary Argetsinger (Karen) and brother-in-law Dale Campbell (Sharon). Gale was preceded in death by her parents and sister Sharon Campbell.

In keeping with Gale’s wishes, a service is not planned.