| July 7, 1915 - September 28, 2007
Ms. Gail Manners, who was in private life the beloved wife of Professor
Walter Cassel, passed away September 28, 2007. She was an accomplished
actress and singer in her own right, often as a passionate and collaborative
co-star with her husband, Walter. Ms. Manners began her professional career
in New York City where she sang at the Palace Theater Times Square with
other greats like Frank Sinatra. During the War, Ms. Manners performed with
the USO in England for American and other Allied troops preparing for the
invasion of Europe. Upon her return to the United States, she traveled and
performed in many cities throughout the country, including on tour with the
great Sigmund Romberg “ROMMY.” Gail even at this young age did so adore
being with this 101 all men grand symphony orchestra and their world famous
composer conductor as the only woman!
In addition Ms. Manners performed many of her most cherished roles
with Walter Cassel, whom she met in Louisville, Kentucky. Those roles
included “No Bed of Roses,” “Kismet,” “Oklahoma,” “The Desert Song,” “Kiss
Me Kate,” to name but a few, as well as Opera roles with the New York City
Center Opera Company. Gail was the resident Diva for years at the PAPER MILL
PLAYHOUSE in Milburn, New Jersey. To sum it all up, let me say, my mother
may have been blitzed and bombed by the Germans, and the Brits, and she may
also have been rarely bombed by the drama and music critics, but she only
had rave notices for and by and for her life!
Ms. Manners is survived by her son, Diedrick Cassel; her
grandchildren Christopher Cassel and Alexis Cassel; and four wonderful,
great-grandchildren, Sophie-Claire, Timothy, Christopher, and Loren. In
addition, Gail leaves behind her loving stepchildren Mary Cassel, Jeanie
Charles and William Earl Cassel.
She is remembered and celebrated by her family as a fine mother,
and I her son, have been privileged to have had a mother, a star, and a
great role model. Her life was also a great love story and a celebration of
all that a marriage can ever hope to be. Gail was truly a dear mother, a
great singer, fine actress, and artist, and an intellectual mentor, a true
great dear lady in all ways! Her passing marks the end of an era of style,
culture, grace, and, most importantly, a long life of 92 years of sheer joy
for others and herself!
The family and friends deeply and sincerely wish and must
acknowledge and give special thanks to, Esther, Carolyn and Poky, who
nurtured and cared for Gail, and gave her company for many years.
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