For decades, the Rome and Floyd County community has been blessed by an unwavering force of compassion and dedication: Gail Stevenson Veal. Gail is more than a passionate community advocate; she is the embodiment of selfless service – a genuine angel among us – whose lifework has been entirely devoted to bettering the world around her.
A proud Rome native, Gail’s foundation in service began with her education, culminating in a Bachelor’s degree from Shorter College following her graduation from Model High School. Gail’s formal work career spanned over thirty years, consistently focusing on nurturing the next generation. She dedicated her talents as a special education teacher within the Floyd County School system before joining Rome City Schools. There, her profound commitment shone through as she collaborated with Communities in Schools and served as both the Pre-K Coordinator and a dedicated Site Coordinator until her retirement in 2002. Gail is the daughter of the late Bobby Stevenson and Barbara Washington and is the mother to Kelly and Holly. While her professional life was impactful, it is Gail’s extraordinary and unselfish volunteerism that has woven her into the very fabric of our community. Her presence is felt across every demographic and need. Whether she is offering vital weekend childcare so a mother can work, or taking on key leadership roles on numerous boards, Gail approaches every commitment with the same quiet determination and generosity of spirit.
Her dedication has not only filled needs but has empowered, unified, and enriched countless lives. The following is a testament to her far-reaching influence:
- Community & Advocacy: Senior Promotion Council Board Member, A Voice For Votes Member, United Way Member
- Civic Engagement & Culture: One Community United Decorator, MLK Jr. Annual Community Breakfast Member and Decorator, African American Connection For the Arts: Assistant to Director
- Youth & Education: Anna K. Davie Elementary School Mentor, Miss Rome/Northwest Georgia Board of Directors, Coosa Valley Fair Queen Competition: Candidate Assistance
- Direct Service: Toys For Tots: Assembler and Donator
- Leadership &; Support: Rome/Floyd NAACP Veterans and Education Committee
Gail’s tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed, and she has been the distinguished recipient of several significant recognitions:
- Rome City Schools Support Employee of the Year – 2004 and 2023 (A rare, repeated honor decades apart, demonstrating sustained excellence)
- Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Most Valuable Soror – 2016 and 2018
- Unsung SHEro nomination by the Queens Ministry