Gayle Anne (Casto) Musick, 70, of Pataskala, Ohio passed on after a brief, unexpected illness in Nashville, Tennessee on Monday, November 2nd, 2026. 

Gayle was born on November 11th, 1955, in Lancaster, Ohio to Otis Allen and Frances Emogene “Em” Casto. Growing up in Kirkersville, Ohio with five brothers and three sisters, Gayle and her siblings developed a deep love and appreciation for their large family, a value that permeates their extended families today. She attended Watkins Memorial High School, and after graduation earned a degree in Fashion Merchandising from Brooks College in Long Beach, California. She was blessed to be the mother of three children: Aeryn Thomas, Abby Gayle, and Ross Edward. 

Though she carried many titles and roles throughout her life both in and out of the home, she earned her favorite one in June of 2003: “Gigi.” Gayle’s light and love for her grandchildren was apparent to all who knew her, and she never missed an opportunity to be with them. She absolutely loved to see them thrive, and was the first to lift them up whenever they needed it. She effortlessly fostered deep and meaningful relationships with each of them, no matter how they came into her family. She loved being their Gigi. 

She was incredibly proud of her work leading American Cancer Society’s Upper Arlington Discovery Shop, where she endeared herself to customers and volunteers alike with her talent, commitment, and compassion. 

Gayle loved to travel and often accompanied her children and grandchildren on their vacations, never missing an opportunity to create lifelong memories with them. She recently had the opportunity to tour Portugal with her dear friend Connie, and just before her passing enjoyed a trip to Ireland and Scotland with her sister Patty. She had a hearty appetite for experiencing new things and trying new foods (and subsequently trying to figure out how to make them). 

Gayle was preceded in death by her parents, Otis and Emogene Casto, brothers David Casto, Casey Casto, Paul “Peewee” Casto, and Steve Casto, sister-in-law Sue Casto, brother-in-law Terry Johnson, and grandson Asher Musick. She is survived by her children Aeryn (Rin) Musick, Abby (Aaron Wahl) Musick, and Ross (Kate) Musick, grandchildren Ellie, Serj, Otis, Noah, Fiona, Julia, Avery, Lane, Mikey, London, Sophia, and Vivienne, sisters Donna (Kenny) Wimer, Lynn (George) Snider, and Patty Johnson, brother Tommy (Shelley) Casto, sisters-in-law Theresia Casto, Judy Casto, Connie Casto, and Kim Casto, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Gayle lived her life in a way to which we should all aspire: Love fiercely, laugh loud, cry big, and understand that life is often a series of events outside of our control. True peace and happiness are found in embracing each moment we’re given. 

A celebration of Gayle’s life will take place in early December, with details to be shared once finalized. 

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations in Gayle’s memory to the Southwest Licking Education Foundation. Gayle believed deeply in supporting our schools, and her legacy should continue on in the many programs supported by the foundation. While Gayle’s sudden and untimely passing has left pain and sadness within all who loved her, the light and love she shared with everyone she met will carry her memory forward. 

Rest peacefully, Gigi. We love you to the moon and back.

Southwest Licking Education Foundation Donation Link