Virtually everyone connected with the North Texas Church of Freethought knew the vivacious and enthusiastic Gail DeLay as a member of the church band, a frequent presenter at our services and as a friend. We are saddened and shocked by her death on or about July 22nd of 2005 in her home. The Dallas Medical Examiner has determined that her death was a homicide perpetrated by blunt force trauma to the head. Gail's body was discovered by a fellow NTCOF member who had come to visit her knowing that she had not been feeling well and could not be reached by telephone or email. The door to Gail's home was found open and the police have said that items were apparently taken. At present, her murder is unsolved, and her killer(s) have not been brought to justice.

As a freethinker, Gail did not have any expectation of a life beyond the one she knew. Indeed, she exemplified the attitude of those who reject supernatural doctrines and approach religious questions rationally. She believed and led her life out of the belief that this life we know is all that we have. On her website, she pointed out: "Life is short -- Make fun of it!" Gail Delay did not pray or engage in superstitious rituals and would not approve of such things being done in her memory. Like many Church of Freethought members, she had tried these things once and found them unsatisfying. Her own efforts to understand herself, others, and the world led her to embrace atheism and rationalism. Gail's friends at the North Texas Church of Freethought continue to mourn her violent and untimely death. Gail was a magnificent person who touched the lives of so many people. These photos may help serve as a memorial to Gail, so that her memory can continue to profoundly touch the lives of those she knew during her time with us.