Gail Owen McTiernan passed away Saturday evening, May 16, 2026 at the Abraham House of Utica surrounded by her loving family.

     Gail was born in Utica NY on January 24, 1948, to Edward & Evelyn (Lockwood) Sweezey and was educated in the Utica School District.  In 1964, Gail married John T. Owen and together they were blessed with three sons who remained the center of her world throughout her life.

     In the summer of 1985 Gail met the love of her life, Ed McTiernan, and from that moment on they built a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.  They married August 24, 2019, and together they shared 41 beautiful years creating countless cherished memories and a bond that grew stronger with time.  Their love story was one of true partnership, friendship and deep commitment.

     Prior to her retirement Gail was employed with Univac and Par Technology before she and Ed became co-owners of Powerhouse Gym in Yorkville, NY.  Fitness was one of Gail’s greatest passions. Whether she was working behind the desk or leading one of the many aerobics classes she taught each week, she brought friendliness, encouragement, and warmth to everyone around her. Outside the gym, Gail found joy in tending to her garden, spending time with her beloved cats, and enjoying days at the shooting range with family and friends.   Gail especially treasured her weekly shopping trips with her son Steven as well as listening to the guitar playing and simply enjoying each other.  In the evenings, Gail enjoyed catching up on Days of our lives or On Patrol while relaxing with a glass of wine.

     Gail was a devoted supporter of the Tunnel to Towers foundation and quietly gave to many charitable causes throughout the years.  Her faith was deeply important to her, and she found great comfort and strength in reading the bible, nearly completing it prior to her passing.  Gail also faced one of life’s greatest challenges with courage and determination as a proud breast cancer survivor.

     Above all else, Gail will be remembered for her compassion, generosity, and selflessness.  She always placed the needs of others before her own, especially those of her children and grandchildren, who she loved beyond measure.

     Gail is survived by her loving husband Ed, her three sons, John and Leslie owen, Douglas and Kristin Owen, and Steven Owen, and her four grandchildren Ashley and Michael Arcuri, Alison Owen and her fiancé’ Jeff Daniels, Douglas Owen Jr. and Daniel Owen. Gail is also survived by her brothers Edward and Rusty Sweezey and Michael and Yamany Sweezey; her mother in law, Johanna McTiernan; her sister in law Linda and  Marty Jin and  her sister in law, Anne Owen Mikalajunas;  and many nieces and nephews including Richard Sweezey, Melissa Orr, Tanya Rosas, Keith Skermont, Jason Skermont, Eric Sweezey, Tim Sweezey, Nicole Jones, Kayla Jones, Donna Sweezey, Carmella Latchford, Jessica Menzel and Edward Sweezey along with many great nieces and nephews.

     She was predeceased by her parents Edward & Evelyn, her sisters Pam Jones, Diane Benoit, Sandra Sweezey and her father-in-law Edwin McTiernan.

     Gails family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Abraham House of Utica, especially Jessie, Ashley and Jordan whose kindness, compassion and exceptional care brought comfort to Gail and her loved ones during her final days.

     In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Gails life are asked to consider a memorial donation to the Abraham House of Utica, 1203 Kemble St. Utica NY 13501.

     A private family visitation and service will be held on Friday at Heintz Funeral Home.