Michelle Gail Reust
July 28, 1945
April 30, 2025
Michelle Gail Reust, lovingly known as Gail, passed away April 30, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and the presence of her Savior. Born on July 28, 1945, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Gail was raised in Derby, Kansas, where she spent her early years. She loved riding her horse “Beauty”. She also was an excellent dancer, including tap, contemporary, and ballet. She was even asked to join the “Rockettes”, but her mother said no; Gail had to go to College instead. So, off to college she went.
Gail attended Emporia State University, where she met the love of her life, William “Bill” Reust on a double date. Gail’s date was to be Bill’s cousin and Gail’s roommate was to be Bill’s date, but soon Bill and Gail had only eyes for each other.
The two were married on November 25, 1965, beginning a beautiful, lifelong partnership that became an example to all who knew them. Their love story was one—full of unwavering devotion, many trials and adventures, faithful commitment to God and love for their children. Together, they raised one girl and two boys--: Kimberly, Randall, and Michael.
Gail’s journey as a mother began in Emporia with the birth of Kimberly . The family soon moved to Denver, where Bill taught Math, coached football, and where Randall was born. A short time later, they settled in Ottawa, Kansas, where Bill pursued his post-secondary education and welcomed Michael into the world. It was in Ottawa that the family experienced a spiritual rebirth and committed their lives fully to Christ—a foundation that would guide Gail’s life from that point forward.
In 1984, what could only be described as an “act of God” led the Reust family to Dewey, Oklahoma. There, Gail stepped into a new role outside the home, working as a cashier at Bartlesville Wesleyan College (now Oklahoma Wesleyan University), where Bill taught. Her office quickly became the campus hangout spot. Students were drawn not only to the snacks and laughter but to Gail’s heart—warm, welcoming, and full of wisdom. Ever the matchmaker, Gail was instrumental in the love stories of both her sons, introducing Randall to Keiko and Michael to Janet through her work with exchange students.
When Bill retired from BWC, Gail did too—devoting her full attention to caring for her grandchildren, Ashley and Aaron. She became more than just a grandmother—she was a second mother, a mentor, and a best friend. Her home was filled with love, laughter, and prayer. Gail’s nurturing spirit was matched only by her faith; she was a true prayer warrior, covering her family and friends in daily intercession and fighting the good fight with quiet strength.
Gail’s gift of hospitality knew no bounds. Whether hosting friends, students, or strangers who showed up at her door in need, she opened her heart and home with grace. Sundays after church became sacred time in the Reust household, as their door was always open—because to Gail, it was never “their” home, but “God’s” home. Later in life, she and Bill moved to Missouri to care for her aging parents before returning to Oklahoma to be closer to family.
Gail loved to travel. She served on mission trips throughout the US and also to Peru. Gail loved the ocean and found peace on the white sands of Panama City Beach, where she could often be found splashing in the surf or gazing out from a balcony, soaking in God’s beauty. She was also an avid cruiser, having sailed on more than 50 voyages.
She is survived by her beloved husband, William Reust; her children: daughter Kimberly Cole and husband Lonnie, son Michael Thompson and wife Janet, and daughter-in-law Keiko Reust; her grandchildren: Jenye Ahrens and husband Christian, Ashley Morris and husband Carl, Aaron Alexander, and Ben Reust; and her great-grandchildren: Mack, Jedidiah, Emma, Dexter, Nora, Eloise, and Aiden. Gail is also survived by her sister-in-law Linda McQuillen and many extended family members and dear friends.
Gail was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Betty McQuillen; her brother, Tracy McQuillen; her son, Randall Reust; and two cherished grandchildren, John Thompson and Daichi Reust.
A memorial service to celebrate Gail’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on May 31, 2025, at Bartlesville First Wesleyan Church, 1776 Silver Lake Rd Bartlesville Ok, with Pastor Joe Colaw officiating.
Gail’s legacy is one of faith, family, friendship, and fierce love. She leaves behind a life well-lived and well-loved—a true testament to her Savior’s grace and her servant’s heart.
We are deeply sorry for your loss. There are no words that can ease this pain, but please know that we are with you during this difficult time. Grandma Gail was a wonderful person, and her memory will live on in our hearts forever. May God bless you. With love from Costa Rica. - Sonia Sánchez
I was deeply saddened to hear the news. I’m truly sorry for the loss of Grandma Gail. May you find comfort in the memories you shared and in the love of those around you. Psalm 116:15 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. May God bless you all! - Rolando Arce
We have many fond memories of travel and cruises with Bill and Gail. She will be greatly missed. - Gayla Cooper