MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) – Longtime restaurant owner Gail Royal died Friday following an extensive battle with cancer. She was 74 years old.
Gail’s Down the Street Cafe announced her passing Saturday on social media.
“We will surely miss her, but are relieved she’s no longer in pain and is in heaven,” the statement said in part. “It’s been a very difficult few months, but with your help, we’ve made it through these hard times.”
Gail owned and operated Gail’s Down the Street Cafe since 1993, a popular Montgomery meat-and-three lunch spot on Zelda Road.
Gail owned and operated Gail’s Down the Street Cafe for 33 years.(WSFA 12 News)
Gail was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2025. Since then, she faced multiple health problems including dehydration, clots, sepsis, and infections. Despite undergoing chemotherapy treatment, she continued to show up for work. However, her battle forced her in and out of the hospital, eventually leaving her unable to return to the restaurant she built.
Gail’s battle with cancer drew tremendous support from the Montgomery community, who continued to show up to the restaurant despite her absence.
Gail Royal stands with a customer at Gail’s Down the Street Cafe.(WSFA 12 News)
The restaurant said Saturday that it will continue to operate as it has been.
“It has been shocking to say the least, but we will make it through this as well,” the restaurant said.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
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