We regret to announce of the passing of TFC Gayle (VanLaningham) Schreiber, MDSP Retired. Gayle was seriously hurt when struck by a vehicle at an accident scene on July 4, 1989, on I-695 where the I-97 interchange was being built, and was forced to retire the next year due to her injuries.
March 11, 1963 – March 5, 2026
OBITUARY
Gayle Ann Schreiber, 62, of Hagerstown, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Meritus Medical Center.
Born on March 11, 1963, in Baltimore, Maryland, Gayle was the beloved daughter of the late Robert VanLaningham and Elizabeth (Wilhide) VanLaningham. She lived a life defined by service, compassion, and unwavering devotion to her family.
Gayle proudly served as a Maryland State Police Trooper from 1985 to 1990, demonstrating courage and dedication early in her career. She later continued her lifelong commitment to helping others through her work as Director of Cameo House of Washington County and as a Social Worker for Franklin County Children and Youth.
A 1981 graduate of North Hagerstown High School and a 1985 graduate of the University of Nebraska, Gayle was also an accomplished swimmer on a national scale. She swam for Knights of Columbus Orchard under renowned coach Arthur “Reds” Hutch, and during summers competed with the Rusty Rock Swim Team in Randallstown, Maryland, and the Beaver Creek Country Club in Hagerstown. Her discipline and determination in athletics mirrored the strength she carried throughout her life.
Above all else, Gayle was a devoted wife and mother. She shared a loving marriage with her husband, Edward J. Schreiber, from August 29, 1987, and was the proud mother of three children: Zachary James Schreiber (Heather Ann Luciani), Zane Edward Schreiber (Maggie), and Zoe Grace Schreiber. She was also a joyful presence in the lives of her sisters, Suzan Miller (William) and Diane Croson (Michael), as well as her niece and nephew.
Gayle’s heart extended to all living beings. She adored animals, especially her cherished golden retriever, Finnley, and her “grand doggies” Piper, Gordie, and Louie. Summers spent on the boat at Lake Anna, Virginia, surrounded by family and friends, were among her happiest times.
She was a constant and enthusiastic cheerleader at her children’s sporting events, a wonderful cook known for her beloved baked ziti, and a loving caregiver to her parents, Betty Jean and Robert VanLaningham. Gayle was admired for her gentle strength, powerful love, and joyful spirit. She was truly a very accomplished woman who made life richer for everyone who knew her.
SERVICES
Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., at the Douglas A. Fiery Funeral Home, 1331 Eastern Boulevard North, Hagerstown, Maryland.
Memorial services will be held Friday, March 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at the Douglas A. Fiery Funeral Home, 1331 Eastern Boulevard North, Hagerstown, Maryland, with Chaplain Vlad Corea officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Target Cancer Foundation at https://www.givengain.com/project/zoe-raising-funds-for-targetcancer-foundation-113016.
Online condolences may be expressed at the Douglas A. Fiery Funeral Home
