Margaret Gale Howard Hydrick, lovingly known as “Gale,” passed away peacefully and went into the arms of Jesus on May 21, 2026. Born on June 11, 1935, in Easley, South Carolina, Gale lived a life rooted in faith, compassion, and love for her family. She is the daughter of the late William Floyd “Pete” Howard and the late Ethel Crowe Howard Hines.

Gale was preceded in death by her beloved husband, George Dewey Hydrick, Jr., her brother Michael Floyd Howard, and her sister Barbara Dean Howard. She is survived by her loving children, Mark Hydrick (Michelle), of Easley, and Dr. Kimberley Hydrick Clardy, of Easley; and her cherished grandchildren, Mark Joseph “MJ” Hydrick (Macy) and Matthew Hydrick.

Raised in Park Street Baptist Church, Gale later returned there after living in Houston, Texas, before becoming a faithful member of Jones Avenue Baptist Church. She loved serving in both churches through singing in the choir, teaching, and participating in senior adult ministries.

A 1953 graduate of Easley High School, Gale remained closely connected with her graduating class throughout the years and often shared fond memories. A 1957 graduate of Greenville General Hospital School of Nursing, Gale devoted her life to caring for others as a geriatric nurse and nursing home administrator. She later continued serving others through volunteer work with Miracle Hill Ministries.

Above all, Gale’s greatest joy was being a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud “Nana.”

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the extraordinary staff at Viva Assisted Living in Easley for their unwavering love, compassionate care, and kindness. They became so much more than caregivers — they were truly angels without wings. The tenderness, dignity, and comfort they gave Gale and her family will never be forgotten.

The family also wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to the selfless nurses and staff at Via Hospice and Palliative Care. Their compassion, comfort, and gentle care were a source of strength and peace.

Family and friends will gather for a graveside service on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Easley, SC.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Miracle Hill Ministries, P.O. Box 2546, Greenville, SC 29602, or by performing an act of kindness or grace in Gale’s memory.