Worthington High Schools Alumni Club - Deceased Classmates
First Name
Gayla
Maiden Name
Fuller
Last Name
Whitacre
Passing Date
10/7/2026
Class Attended
Faculty
High School
Worthington High School
Gayla Whitacre, age 89, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2026. A devoted wife, mother, educator, and community leader, Gayla lived a full and vibrant life centered on family, the arts, and public service. Gayla was born on February 8th 1937 in Detroit Michigan and was raised in Toledo Ohio, attending DeVilbiss High School and later Ohio University where she earned a degree in English, Speech and Drama in 1958. In 1957, she met the love of her life, Gary Whitacre, and the two were united in marriage on February 15, 1958. A passionate educator and supporter of the performing arts, Gayla began her professional career as an English and Speech teacher at Worthington High School, serving from 1958 to 1965. During her years in the classroom, she shared her artistic energy by directing school plays and musicals, inspiring many young minds both on stage and off. Gayla’s lifelong commitment to community was reflected in her decades of leadership and volunteerism. She was deeply instrumental in the early growth of The Westerville Symphony, serving on its board of directors and holding the office of President for two terms. Her dedication to her children, youth and music also extended to the Westerville South Marching Band Parent Booster Organization, where she also twice served as President. For over 20 years across Central Ohio, Gayla donated her time to the Ohio Historical Society and the Ohio Statehouse, where she delivered hundreds of walking tours and character enactments. Her fondness for literature and social connection led her to co-found several book clubs with friends that gathered continuously for over 40 years. Gayla is survived by her husband of 68 years, Gary Whitacre; children, Laurie Whitacre and Jay Whitacre; her sister, Kathleen Ninneman; and over 40 nieces, nephews, and in-laws. She was preceded in death by her brother David Fuller, and her parents, Irving and Jean Fuller.
