Gail Patton Loel

Born on Christmas Eve in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, she moved to Los Angeles after earning a master’s degree in microbiology from the University of Pennsylvania and a degree in dental hygiene from Temple University. She married my dad and began her family, while also building her own successful business manufacturing decorative pillows and bedspreads. An amazing accomplishment for a wife and mother of that time

Her business became wildly successful, with her beautiful designs sold in every major department store across the country. She was the first woman featured in the business section of the Los Angeles Times, paving the way for generations of female entrepreneurs. Gail was a gifted designer who created and transformed everything she touched into something more beautiful than anyone could have imagined.

When her family moved to Holmby Hills, she restored an original Paul Williams home. The house was immaculate, remarkable, and admired by everyone who entered it—an expression of her extraordinary eye, determination, and love for her family.

She possessed an exceptional work ethic. She often said that she could “outwork any man,” a belief forged by the challenges faced by women of her generation and reflected in all that she accomplished. She was kind, intelligent, humble, fearless, and truly extraordinary. All admired her strength, courage, independence, and ability to make the world around her more beautiful.

She is survived by her three children: Brandi Stern, married to Luke Stern, and their children, Brooklyn and Dax; Ross Loel, married to Jessica Caforio, and their children, Talia and Jayden; and Grant Loel, married to Michelle Masters, and their daughter, Ashlyn.

She was loved more than words can say. Her friends and family are endlessly grateful for everything she taught us. Her memory will remain a blessing forever and ever.