LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Surrounded by family and wonderful friends, Gayla Whitehead went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2013, after a nine month battle with cancer.

Gayla was born in Topeka, Kansas, on Feb. 28, 1955, to Frank and June Bunce, and moved to Lakeport, Calif., in 1972. She married John Whitehead in 1974.

She was employed in the local construction industry for 35 years, finishing her career as an office manager for Lake Aero Styling at Lampson Field, Lakeport.

Gayla, in addition to her husband and parents, is survived by her daughter, Staci of Topeka, Kansas; her son, Brandon of Vancouver, Wash.; goddaughter, Stacey May Mansell of El Dorado Hills; brothers, Joe (Francis) Bunce of Hidden Valley Lake, Pete (Joni) Bunce of Casper, Wyo., and Jeff Bunce of Topeka; and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Hospice Services of Lake County; great friends, Donna Bruch, Paula Connors, Loa Booth and Mike Davidson (and spouses for their understanding); and innumerable others for their wonderful care and compassion during Gayla's illness. Without their help, the task would have been insurmountable.

A celebration of life is planned for a later date.

The family prefers donations to an animal rescue organization of your choice or take the opportunity to pay kindness forward in her memory.

For further information call Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com .