Gayle McCormick Obituary

"Gayle McCormick will always be one of my favorite singers... Flesh and Blood, What Am I Gonna' do... Gayle's voice was always unforgettable. Could make you cry, smile and give you goosebumps at the same time. And her band arrangements were always top notch." -- Neil Wiger

That beautiful voice coming over the radio as a youngster. Her incredible beauty as displayed on the band's album cover. Never to be forgotten. Ron

Loved your voice, Gayle. You are a beautiful part of my teen years. Smith was an awesome band and I still absolutely love listening to you sing Thank you,Gayle and band members
Forever a fan

I met Gayle at a recording session in 1972 and we spent some fun times together that summer. She had a great sense of humor, was Midwest charming and very down-to-earth. I rediscovered her in 2007 in the White Pages and we chatted seemingly almost every day for a few months. Life had changed for her. We were all devastated when she passed away and I still have the notes and mementos she sent me in 2007. There are many worldwide that love her and new fans discover Gayle all the time. No doubt.....a warm, shining angel whom could really sing. We all miss her and her unique talent.

March 1,2024
Dearest sweet Gayle, 8 year's ago I lost you...and everyday I miss you more than ever. You were truly not only my best friend, but the light & the love of my life for 51 years. Rest In Peace my precious, Angel. I always hear your voice, but I miss your wonderful laugh, your kindness, your warm hugs, and your sweet smile. You were always one of the most-precious Jewels in the Universe, and you are always in my mind, my heart, and, within my very soul. You can never be replaced. I will always love you.

Jonnie King

March 02, 2024 | Saint Ann,, MO

The first time I heard you sing Baby its You, I was hooked. You were underappreciated. Beautiful lady, beautiful voice. RIP Gayle

Beautiful voice beautiful woman

Peace and love to you Gayle. I love your beautiful voice. Your fan, Ronnie Sturdevant.

Gayle McCormick with Steve Cummings and the Klassmen are one of the most underrated rock / pop bands of all time. Gayle's vocals and (presumably) Steve's arrangements on Mr. Loveman and Without You (released on Musicland USA) made for two of the best and most underappreciated records to come on in the 60s. We miss you and your talent, Gayle, but continue listening and appreciating the music you left us. Thank you for that.

One of the best voices, ever. I hope you knew and know how many lives you touched and the differences you made. You made us feel - and continue to feel - and what a great feeling. An enormous talent. You still have legions of fans and are greatly missed. I pray you had a peaceful life, and knew great peace in your passing. I want to know so much more about you. Hope someone will write your biography, do a movie, etc. You touched us. "There are no ordinary people. Some touch our hearts, our minds, our souls and fill a place we didn't know existed. They leave us changed and better. For this - words will never be adequate".
- jolie gallant

Listened to 'Baby It's You' again, earlier today. We were knocked out by her rendition in 1960's rural Louisiana, and the power and bluesy soul behind this song still knocks me out. It's a perfect song - for it's time and still for today. The raw emotion, the 'tear' in her voice and perfect timing leave me absolutely wanting more. I believe I would've liked to have known Gayle and I'm sad at her untimely demise. I really would have liked to know her. Her voice captured so much. She made this song hers. Rest in Peace.

Happy Birthday Gayle! Appreciate you and your talent. Missing you...

You'll always live on in your music.

Thank You for sharing your voice with me and the rest of the world.

My wife & I were just in St. Louis last week, and we looked up Gayle's headstone and a kind man who worked in the Mt. Lebanon Cemetery office showed me a picture from the wake which I recognized as the photo from Smith's first album cover with Gayle front and center. He was kind enough to allow me to hold it for a picture, and I can't tell you how honored I was to have an authentic McCormick family heirloom in my hands, especially after coming all the way from Maryland. It's good to know she can still give people a thrill after all these years. RIP.

I was 8 years old in 1969 living in Northern California. We never missed the Ed Sullivan Show back then it was a family television event. Gayle appeared on the show. She sang her hit version of "Baby It's You." Gayle embodied what it was like to live during that turbulent time when young people just wanted to share love, end the Vietnam War, and fight for human equality in America. R.I.P. Gayle McCormick.

I was a little boy in love with you in 1972, I was 10. RIP Baby It´s You.

I always loved that song by Smith. It wasn't until just a few years ago that I learned who did it. The reason I'm posting is because this page says that they could find no organization to donate to. I did. On the Dignity Memorial page (https://www.dignitymemorial.com/en-ca/obituaries/saint-ann-mo/gayle-mccormick-6830532) it is requested that "Memorials are appreciated to: VH1 Save The Music Foundation, P.O. Box 2096, New York, NY 10108-2096 because without her foundation in music, Gayle's life would have been very different."

Oh my goodness, I just discovered this beautiful lady has been gone 6 years. I loved her music, she was very good singer, rest in peace.

Loved,"Baby It's You!!" Sad to see Gayle is gone way too early. A Fabulous Song that will go on Forever...

Five years ago we lost you and Heaven gained one rocking angel thanks for all the great music

March 1,2021
Dearest sweet Gayle, 5 year's ago I lost you...and everyday I miss you more than ever. You were truly not only my best friend, but the light & the love of my life for 51 years. Rest In Peace my precious, Angel. I always hear your voice, but I miss your wonderful laugh, your kindness, your warm hugs, and your sweet smile. You were always one of the most-precious Jewels in the Universe, and you are always in my mind, my heart, and, within my very soul. You can never be replaced. I will always love you.

Gayle Mccormick is the best female musician in my opinion. Before I was an Olivia Newton John fan and before I was an Abba fan, I was a Gayle Mccormick fan since 1975 when I entered first grade. Now 45 years later I appreciate her music more as I got older. Her music has withstood the test of time, whether it's solo or whether it's singing in the band Smith. My favorite songs are C'est la vie, Superstar, Save Me, What Am I Gonna Do, and Jason. Her music is a time capsule to my childhood in the 1970s.
Some very talented musicians wrote some of her songs, such as Brian Potter and Dennis Lambert. Gayle Mccormick should have been as famous as Olivia Newton John and Abba. I'm one of Gayle's biggest fans. I wanted so much to meet her live and in person and go to her concerts but it didn't work out. Her music is vintage nostalgia at its best. She is much loved and much missed by her fans. I pray we meet in the next life where she can sing to her fans.

I love Gayle Mccormick. She is one of the best musician and one of my favorite musicians, whether signing solo or signing for the band Smith. My favorite songs are What Am I Gonna Do, Superstar, and C'eat la vie. The song C'est la vie is mesmerizing. Her music is a time capsule to my childhood in the 1970s. I'm one of her biggest fans. From all of her fans, we love her and miss her.

March 1,2020
Dearest sweet Gayle, 4 year's ago I lost you...and everyday I miss you more than ever. You were truly not only my best friend, but the light & the love of my life for 51 years. Rest In Peace my precious, Angel. I always hear your voice, but I miss your wonderful laugh, your kindness, your warm hugs, and your sweet smile. You were always one of the most-precious Jewels in the Universe, and you are always in my mind, my heart, and, within my very soul. You can never be replaced.

Baby it's you... thanks for that song, good memories from my youth

So sad to hear of your passing. RIP Gayle. Peace to you and your family.

Miss you more today

Thanks for the beautiful music you gave us all Gayle. I remember hearing you on the radio in Vancouver Canada when i was a kid. RIP Gayle.

Thank you for your beautiful music you gave us. RIP...

Gayle, I just loved your voice and that presence. Wow, I so wish that I could have met you during your life here on Earth. You have my pledge that your music will never be forgotten. I played "Baby, It's You" by Smith on my radio show last night and it brought back so many memories. I have the LP and in my eyes, you had one of the most powerful voices in rock and roll.

Dearest sweet Gayle, 3 year's ago I lost you...and everyday I miss you more than ever. You were truly not only my best friend, but the light & the love of my life for 51 years. Rest In Peace my precious, Angel. I always hear your voice, but I miss your wonderful laugh, your kindness, your warm hugs, and your sweet smile. You were always one of the most-precious Jewels in the Universe, and you are always in my mind, my heart, and, within my very soul. You can never be replaced.

What a beautiful voice.
Baby it's you, forever!
RIP Gayle

A beautiful lady with a beatiful voice.I fell inlovebwith her while I was wearing out my copy ofabgroup called smith.I would haveloved to meet her,but never had the chance.Farewell,and thank you for the music,dear lady.I really hope you are in a better place now.

I was just 19 when I first heard of the band and her deep soul voice,it was love at first sight, bought the 45 rpm and still have it, God rest her soul.
Edward G, New York

she is a leading new member of heaven's helluva band.

I loved her voice, her look, her aura and her exuding a beautiful soul. I smile and celebrate her life, and those who were gifted enough to know her. I wish I had.
The best sign of a good, successful life is these words at the end of it: Never forgotten. The continued tributes here are a stirring and powerful reminder that Gayle's impact still lives.

She had a beautiful voice and was a good looking woman. Great smile too.

Dearest sweet Gayle, 2 year's ago I lost you...and everyday I miss you more than ever. You were truly not only my best friend, but the light & the love of my life for 51 years. Rest In Peace my precious, Angel. I always hear your voice, but I miss your wonderful laugh, your kindness, your warm hugs, and your sweet smile. You were always one of the most-precious Jewels in the Universe, and you are always in my mind, my heart, and, within my very soul. You can never be replaced.

Jonnie King, St.Louis, Missouri

Thanks for your music. I've loved it since the first time i heard you.

Rest In Peace Gayle. Your music and sensational voice lives on. We're still listening.

R. I.P. Gayle. Your music and sensational voice lives on.

Killer voice and a beautiful lady. Have bookmarked her "Baby, It's You" video and downloaded the song. Favourites. RIP Ms McCormick.

Thank you so much for the music, it lives on forever.

I still listen to your songs. Thank you for that.

Dearest sweet Gayle, a year ago I lost you...and everyday I miss you more. You were truly not only my best friend, but the light & the love of my life for 51 years. Rest In Peace, my love, I always hear your voice, but I miss your wonderful laugh, your kindness, your warm hugs, and your sweet smile. You are always in my mind, my heart, and, within my very soul.

Rest in peace Gayle. Will always have fond memories from high school when you sang with Steve Cummings and the Chevels. I went to Hazelwood Class of 68 with Steve Cummings and Jim Kierber. Always amazed at your success with "Smith", but you deserved it. You will never be forgotten.


Barry Hall
Hazelwood '68

I worked with Gayle in St. Louis after she got out of the "business". She was a great lady, and a great friend. R.I.P Gayle! YOu will be sorely missed!

Gayle, Just found out you passed. I remember in 4th grade you sitting in front of me in Mr Bay's class. You were such a sweet friend. I also remember in 1969 being in New Jersey at Fort Dix watching a variety show ironing a pair of fatigues for my husband when Smith performed. I didn't even know you were a part of that group. All I know is I was jealous and envious of you. You gave it your best sweetheart and touched many lives. Sure you are singing in heaven. Ricci Henderson

I was maybe eleven when I first heard her. I can't begin to imagine how many times I played that first Smith album...over and over again. I was always disappointed that Smith didn't last longer, but bands come and go so fast with rare exception.

RIP pretty girl. When it came to female singers, baby, it was you. I still listen to you sometimes.

I first saw her as the bell rang at Pattonville- she came out of the classroom and I said to the person next to me "WHO IS THAT"? She must have heard me; as she walked down the hall towards me she brushed up against me- I can still smell her perfume.Yes,she was really as beautiful as she is in the videos, and really sweet. She performed at Club Imperial Opposite Tina Turner ( rotating 45 minute sets), and she held her own. She was really that good! Or, maybe I loved her and I can't be objective about her. P.D.

Always remembered listening to her great voice singing with the group called Smith. RIP-only the good die young

The band I was in opened up for "Smith" at the Muskogee, Ok Convention Center in 1969. Following the concert we all got together at the local Holiday Inn and talked about music and playing, etc. Gayle was very kind and approachable. Our female vocalist covered most of Gayle's songs and it was such and honor to play with them. She will be missed. Steve Marvel (Drummer for Fox) Tulsa, Oklahoma

You voice and beauty are part of the fabric of 60s and 70s rock and pop. Thanks for the amazing songs: Mr. Loveman, Near You, Baby It's You, C'est le Vie and so many others. Tell Her No should have been #1. My favorite: Without You. "And I hope you're unhappy without me" was the perfect ending. We are unhappy now without you.

A great talent and natural beauty. Rest in peace, sweet lady.

One of my all time favorite songs is Love Walked Out The Door TY for all the hours of pleasure I had listening to you sing it RIP

Thank you so much for sharing your voice and your music with me. It will remain an indelible part of my past even now that youre gone. May you rest in eternal peace.

Rest in piece beautiful child

Saddened to have just heard of Gayle's passing. She was an amazing talent! I attended Pattonville High School in St. Ann when she did. I remember listening to her sound in the vocal choirs there right through her stint with Smith and her solo career. Those of us that love music will always remember Gayle and what she left for us. Rest in Peace and I'm sure you are singing in heaven!

I have just learned of Gayle's passing and I'm sad. I have loved the group Smith and song Baby It's You since my teen years. I was so happy to have found her music on Quentins films. I will always remember her beauty and her lovely voice. I wished I would have looked this up earlier. I live in St. Louis. I had no idea she was so close by. Loved her. RIP

Gayle, from a former St. Louisan, to us Baby it's You. great song. Rest in Peace. ...

Sorry to hear of Gayle's passing. I was her real estate agent and felt blessed to have the chance to see her again prior to her passing. A sweet woman.

Gayle,

You were a beautiful and talented woman. Always loved your song," IT'S A CRYING SHAME". Our loss is Heaven's gain.

Rick Roberts
Paintsville,Ky.

Gayle, you can finally sing again, this time with the angels! I am privileged to have known you. May your soul find rest in God's arms! You are in my prayers.

GAYLE your golden voice touched me through the years i saw you perform just once would have loved to see you more rest in peace

Although I discovered her music later in life, something about Gayle touched me as gentle and true and beautiful - from the way she could sing so hard the speakers would almost crack but then so softly she was like a lullaby - and even the way she gave us her gift and then went on to live her life.... Although I never met her I feel like I've lost someone special - but then, again, her memory will shine undimmed as long as music plays in the human heart. Warm thoughts to the extended McCormick family as you remember your loved one. Sincerely,

Such good memories, now and forever.

Thank you Gayle McCormick for your inspiring music and timeless beauty. You touched the world.

What a talent you were, I was younger, probably 12, but remember the song all to well, Baby its you. RIP

Dear Gayle...
You were my friend, my confidant, my "partner-in-fun", and, for 51 years, someone I truly loved, and, loved me back.

Please say "Hi" to Don, Ernie, Jay, Casey, Dick, and, the rest of our friends who are with you in your Special Section of "Rock & Roll Heaven".

You will always live in my heart & soul.

Jim (Jonnie)

Gayle your legacy lives on through your music.... It was my privilege to know you from Macys Jamestown R I P

I'm going to miss you. I enjoyed all the phone calls running to the store for your Vess creme soda and chocolate milk. Till the end you always had a positive outlook on your life. You were a true friend to me and help me see life in a positive way. Make sure God has place for me and Mike next to you in heaven.
Love you
Mary Ann & Mike Good

This lovely lady lives on in the soundtrack of my youth.

Rest In Peace, Gayle.

My condolences to Gayle's family. My prayers are with all of you. I was a fan of Gayle and fellow Pattonville graduate. Sing on Gayle and RIP.

Gail (Jordan) Lineback

May the love from the God of all comfort make your hearts firm while you trust in him for support and strength as you mourn the loss of your loved one. (2 Thessalonians 2:16,17) My sincere condolences to the friends of Ms. MCcormick.

Saying goodbye is always hard, especially when it was someone one didn't personally know. But, Gayle, your music touched my life and the lives of millions more, and we all mourn your passing. Your lovely star has dimmed but you will always live through the music you left behind, and you will always be remembered. The day will come when we will see you again and hear your beautiful voice. You were an angel we had for a short time and God has called you back home. May you always hold a special place in God's heart and know that your goodbyes from us and our broken hearts here aren't forever.

To Gayle's family and friends, our words are inadequate but hope they are of some small comfort. The sweet angel she was said to be may not help ease the pain of her loss, but it is a testament to the person she was here.

So, goodbye for now, Gayle. and until that time, with everlasting love, God bless you.

I'm so sorry for your loss. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Please rely on God during this hard time.

I would like to express your condolences and prayers for family and friends of Gayle~Harvey

My condolences to the friends and fans of Gayle for her loss. May the many wonderful memories you share of her provide comfort to you (John 6:40) ~ Linda, Queens, NY

Cousin Gayle is singing in heaven, entertaining all up there.
She was a gentle soul, God Bless her and keep her.

Dear McCormick Family
I'm so very sorry for your loss, Please accept my condolences and sympathies, Mark 5:39 likens death to sleep and soon Jesus Christ will soon awaken all those in the memorial tombs.

Rest in Peace, Gayle
James C McMahon
(Your Principal at Pattonville High School)

To the family, please accept my condolences for your loss. May you throw all your anxieties on our God and Father and may he be for you a solid rock during these difficult times.
SJ

Gayle was one of kind. She was remarkable. From folk to pop to soul, she had an iconic voice. Never to be forgotten.

May the family find comfort in knowing that God feels for us when we suffer and yearns to bring back those in his memory to the arms of loving families. (Zechariah 2:8; John 14: 14, 15)

- Lisa

Sad to hear of Gayle's passing. I followed her concerts in the 60's her music will live on ,as she will in peace at last with our Lord RIP Gayle



Pat Waraksa ( O'Fallon Mo.

I am sad to here of Gayles passing. Her music got me thru Viet Nam. I have enjoyed all of her music for years. I hope her life was a happy one and that she realized how much joy she gave us with her wonderful voice. I had always wanted to thank her in person-Bill Feeney

God bless you.We are already missing you.

My condolences to the McCormick family . Knowing that Gayle is resting and not suffering anymore brings some peace and comfort . May God remember hre and may he comfort the family during this mournful period . Isaiah 61 : 2 .