A fixture in Bessemer’s once thriving social scene for over 35 years, former Western Star Women’s Editor and Social Editor Gaynell Morrow died on Sunday, December 14, 2025.
A Celebration of Life service was held on December 18 at The Baptist Church at McAdory.
Anita Gaynell Morrow, 88, of McCalla is survived by her husband of 69 years, Charles F. “Chuck” Morrow, her son, Michael Gibson Morrow, her grandchildren, Samantha Marie Morrow, Shelby Lynn Morrow, Lauren Michelle Morrow, Geoffrey Hunter Morrow, and one great grandchild, Miller Charles Morrow.
A Bessemer native, Gaynell was the Women’s Editor and Social Editor for The Western Star for seven years. The Alabama Press Association and the National Newspaper Association selected her for several awards.
Gaynell was a 1955 graduate of Bessemer High School, where she was a cheerleader and a member of several clubs. Later she attended Samford University.
A vivacious and kind personality, Gaynell was a faithful member of South Highland Baptist Church and The Baptist Church at McAdory for over 65 years, respectively. She enjoyed singing in the choir, participating in church dramas, directing the children’s choir, and the Christmas Live Nativity.
A loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend too many, this generous, talented lady loved travelling, antiquing, and hosting bridal teas and baby showers.
Always around and always there, she was very active in Bessemer, being a member of the Salvation Army, the Bessemer Junior Service League, the Hall of History, the West Jefferson County Historical Society, the Bessemer Jaycees, past president of the Sports Club, and served on the Girls Club Board of Directors. She also was instrumental in organizing the Bessemer Memorial Hospital Auxiliary.
Rest eternal grant to Gaynell, O Lord; May her soul and the souls of all the departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
