William Lee “Bill” Gamble, 79, passed away Thursday, April 14, 2016, at home after a courageous battle against cancer. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jeanne Bailey Gamble; son, Kevin (Lea) Gamble of Winter Garden, FL; daughter, Lisa (Tim) Blackwell of Huntsville; son, Jon Gamble of Huntsville; grandchildren, Ethan and Allison Blackwell and Nicholas and Naomi Gamble; sister, Wilma Pennington of Birmingham; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.
Bill was born in Weir, Miss. After graduating from Mississippi State University, he earned his masters and doctorate degrees in Physics from the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. In 1968 he came to Huntsville to work for the US Army Missile Command at Redstone Arsenal in the field of Optics. He received an Outstanding Performance Award for his work at the Research Directorate. During his career he achieved the highest rank bestowed within the Army, that of Senior Research Scientist.
Bill was a problem solver and believer in education for all. His interests were fishing, boating, and camping along the Tennessee River, computer gaming and programming with his youngest son, home construction projects with his eldest son, and lively discussions about politics and world issues with his daughter. His generosity extended beyond his family to anyone in need. We will miss the sense of humor, outspoken personality, and intellectual curiosity of our beloved husband, father, and PaPa.
Upon his request, a private family service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Downtown Rescue Mission, the Southern Poverty Law Center, or a charity of your choice.
