Gail Maureen Gibson Sheffield passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on April 15, 2025, at the

age of 59 years, in her home in Lakeville, Massachusetts.

Gail dedicated her life to education and believed deeply in the transformative power of learning.

Most recently, she served as Vice President for Academic Affairs at Massasoit Community College,

where her leadership, compassion, and commitment left a lasting mark on students, faculty, and the

broader academic community.

Her professional journey began in public television, where she worked as a producer and editor. In

those early years, Gail combined creativity with a passion for storytelling, laying the foundation for

her lifelong dedication to communication, education, and media as tools for connection and growth.

Her public broadcasting work reflected the values she carried into higher education: integrity,

curiosity, and the power of a well-told story.

Born in Auburn, Maine, on July 24, 1965, Gail earned her Bachelor's in Mass Communication from

Lyndon State College, a Master's in Instructional Design from Syracuse University, and her Ph.D. in

Higher Education Administration from Capella University. Her decades-long career in higher

education was marked by innovation, service, and a tireless dedication to equity and student success.

Beyond her professional life, Gail was curious about and loved exploring the world. Whether through

travel, reading, or simply taking in new experiences. She adored her dogs, who were always close by

and brought her daily joy. She deeply appreciated beauty, nature, and the small moments that make

life meaningful.

Gail was also a loving mother, a devoted sister, and a loyal friend. She was widowed in 2024 with the

passing of her beloved husband, James (Jamie) Rockwell Sheffield III. She was predeceased by her

sister, Laurie Ann Gibson of Durham; her father, Stanley Gibson of Auburn; and her mother, Janet

Howard Gibson of Auburn. She is survived by her son, Benjamin Gibson Sheffield, her brother

William (Bim) Gibson of Auburn, Maine, her three dogs Olive, Bowie, and Dobby, and an extensive

network of extended family, friends, colleagues, and students whose lives she touched with kindness

and insight.

She will be remembered for her intellect, sense of humor, fierce sense of justice, and ability always to

make people feel seen and valued. A memorial will be planned at a later date. In place of flowers,

please donate to Planned Parenthood or your local animal shelter.