Bruce Gambrell's Obituary
Robert “Bruce” Gambrell, 93, passed away peacefully on April, 26, 2018, in Gainesville, Florida. He joins his parents, the love of his life, wife Betty Gambrell, and beloved son David Gambrell and we are comforted by thoughts of their heavenly reunion.Bruce was born in Memphis on September 22, 1924, to Stanley and Elizabeth Gambrell. He graduated from Messick High School and spent all but 12 of his 93 years in Memphis.In 1943 Bruce enlisted in the Marines. He saw action on Okinawa and Guam and proudly served in communications with the Navajo Code Talkers. After returning home from the war he met Betty Bullock, the beautiful young lady who had written to him while he was stationed overseas. It was love at first site. The remained married for 65 years until her death.Bruce and his new bride, Betty, began Gambrell Equipment Company in 1946 working side by side and it thrived for 68 years. They felt blessed to have had many faithful customers over the years and both of their children were privileged to have worked with them at the company.He had a wicked sweet tooth and was always known to have Mr. Goodbar’s, Baby Ruth bars, and Pepperidge Farm Tahoe cookies that he loved to share with the staff and residents at his retirement community. Bruce became the official greeter of The Village as his daily routine was sitting in “his office”, otherwise known as the lobby, addressing everyone coming and going, and handing out his health food.Bruce is survived by his daughter Carolyn Harvey (Ken), daughter- in- law Cindy Gambrell, grandchildren Jennifer Harvey, Ryan Harvey, and Matthew Gambrell (Katie), sister-in-law Minor Murrah, and numerous nieces and nephews.Graveside services will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery on Wednesday, May 2nd, at 2:00.Memorials may be made to Memphis Union Mission, P.O. Box 1938, Memphis, TN 38101-1938, Humane Society of Memphis, 935 Farm Road, Memphis, TN 3134, or Haven Hospice Development, 4200 NW 90th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606
What’s your fondest memory of Bruce?
What’s a lesson you learned from Bruce?
Share a story where Bruce's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Bruce you’ll never forget.
How did Bruce make you smile?