Mrs. Rita Gayle McLachlan, age 68, passed away on Thursday, January 25, 2018, at her home, with her husband by her side.

She was born November 12, 1949 in Valparaiso, Fl. to Gus and Bernice Prescott. Gayle grew up in the Mossy Head, Allentown, & Milton, Fl areas. She was faithfully married to her husband, Don, for 41 years. Together, they lived 6 years in Avalon Beach, Fl., 10 years in Pensacola, Fl., and her last 26 years in Pace, Fl. She was originally a member of First Assembly of God Church in Milton, Fl., and later attended several churches throughout the Northwest Pensacola area.

Gayle was a wonderful mother, wife, sister, and friend. She had a kind, caring, and gentle soul. She and her husband, Don, had one beloved daughter, Cheryl. Gayle cherished her family, and nurtured them unselfishly throughout her lifetime. She loved animals, and opened her heart to several pets over the years. Her unwavering commitment to God was a large part of her life. She was an avid reader, and the Bible was her favorite book.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Gus and Bernice Prescott, of Mossy Head, Fl., and her brother, Paul Wayne Prescott, of Mossy Head, Fl.

She is survived by her husband, Donald R. McLachlan, of Pace, Fl.; her daughter, Cheryl L. McLachlan (Bob), of Pensacola, Fl.; her step-son, Russell T. McLachlan (Kay), of Auburn, Al.; step-daughter, Teresa K. McLachlan-Rachal, of Milton, Fl.; sister, Kathie S. Dargis of Fort Worth, Tx.; five grandchildren, and six nieces.

Gayle's sweet and peaceful disposition was adored by all, and she was a joy to be near. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Visitation will be held from 1:00pm-2:00pm on Wednesday, January 31, 2018, at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel, 2276 Airport Blvd., Pensacola, Fl. Funeral service will begin at 2:00pm at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel with Brother Fred Rogers officiating. Burial will follow at Bayview Memorial Park in Pensacola, Fl.