Here is the solution that I found.  Like nearly all my tech issues - the problem lies with me - not the device.  ...All Android devices want/require association with a Gmail account.  This was properly installed by Verizon rep at purchase.  However I then entered that same account plus 2 others via the "email" app that is intended for use with non-Google email accounts (my novice mistake).  So, the device was searching for email to the primary account from at least 2 different locations...not 100% sure this was the cause of the conflict, but it seems likely.   Solution?   ( Make sure all your contacts and such are backed up with Back up assistant, or saved to a separate memory card other than your SIM card just to be safe and be able to restore all information later.  Once saved to here, we removed the Memory card with all the saved data) First a Factory reset was done. After factory reset was complete, we then used the "Google" GMail" button in the set up to associate the phone with the primary Gmail account I wanted to set as the default account.  Then using this same function - the Google Gmail button - NOT THE EMAIL button, we installed the 2 additional GMail accounts that I need to access.  After that we performed a Backup Assistant function to import all my contacts and such. Now everything works correctly.  Remember the "email"button is for non-Google email accounts if you need to access those.  Use the Black button with the white "g" to establish your Google Accounts.  Good luck.  I hope this helps save someone from the frustration I experienced!!!    -cpd