Sean Michael Allen Gambles, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at the age of 53 after an extended illness. Sean was born on October 24, 1971, in Georgetown, Ontario, Canada to Barry Michael Allen Gambles and Shirley Martha Donegan Gambles. Sean made a huge impact in a short time on so many, filling the lives of those around him with laughter, warmth, and a good dose of fun. He was a man who cherished life, his family, his work, and a countless number of friends.
Sean’s educational journey began at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School, but it was at Conestoga College where he found his true calling in Tool & Die Making. As a Group Leader at APMM, Sean was known not just for his expertise, but for his dedication and the incredible friendships he formed with his APMM work family. He was a leader in every sense of the word, always willing to lend a hand, share a laugh, or tell a funny story to brighten someone’s day.
Outside of work, Sean was a man of many passions. He loved hitting the golf course, fishing, duck hunting, and of course, cheering on his Alabama Crimson Tide football and the Toronto Maple Leafs hockey teams. He also loved attending concerts by his favorite bands, caring for his fur babies, and proudly displaying his soft spot for all things Canadian, much to the amusement of those around him. Sean’s spirit of fun and adventure was infectious, and his ability to enjoy the little things in life left a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path.
Sean is survived by his wife, Sherry Riley, of Saltillo, MS, and his children: Katie Gambles, Nora Waters, William Waters, Melissa Brown, Samantha Tharp (Charlie), Casey Barnett, Kyle Barnett, and Lauren Barnett.
His legacy also lives on through his grandchildren: Dominic and Aubrie Gambles, Ethan and Ella Turner, Brianna Isbell (Brandon), Laken and Alex Long, Zoie and Chaz Tharp, as well as his great-grandson, Aiden Luke Langley.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Barry Gambles and Shirley Donegan Hagedorn, his stepfather, Junior Hagedorn, and his infant granddaughter, Mya Rose Gambles.
He will be missed dearly by his big sister, Angela Gambles Ritchie (Kevin) and their children, Nikki and Ryan, and all who knew him.
Visitation will be 5 until 7 p.m. Friday, December 20, 2024, and 12 until 2 p.m. Saturday, December 21, 2024, Pegues, Saltillo.
A Celebration of Sean’s life will be 2 p.m. Saturday, December 21, 2024, at the Saltillo Chapel of Pegues with Bro. Bobby Holland officiating and Mark Kennedy providing the eulogy.
Honorary pallbearers will be Sean’s APMM work family and members of Natchez Trace Golf Club.
While we will miss Sean dearly, we take comfort in knowing that his laughter, his stories, and his immeasurable kindness will live on in all of us.
