Gayle was born in Huntington, West Virginia, in 1959. She was crowned Miss West Virginia in 1978 and went on to compete in the Miss America pageant, where she placed in the top 10.
In 1980, Gayle married Arch Moore Jr., the son of former West Virginia Governor Arch Moore Sr. Arch Jr. was elected Governor of West Virginia in 1984, and Gayle became First Lady.
As First Lady, Gayle was a vocal advocate for education and the arts. She also worked to promote tourism and economic development in West Virginia.
Gayle served as First Lady of West Virginia from 1985 to 1989. After leaving office, she continued to be active in public service. She worked for the West Virginia Department of Education and the West Virginia Arts Commission.
Gayle Conaway is a beloved figure in West Virginia. She is admired for her beauty, intelligence, and dedication to public service.