Thursday, March 16, 2023, Gale Campbell, Sr. went to be with the Lord. He was surrounded by his loving children and adoring grandchildren.
Although we will miss him greatly, we take comfort in knowing he has been reunited with the love of his life and late wife, Kathy. Gale hailed from Columbia, TN where he was raised with his brother and sister, Gable and Gaynor, who preceded him in death. He loved regaling us with stories from his childhood being a rambunctious kid in a small town. The only thing sweeter than his quiet Southern voice was his even sweeter disposition.
While attending the University of Florida, he met his future wife Kathleen (Kathy)Rose Collins on a blind date. It was love at first sight, Gale and Kathy were married for 45 years before her death in 2006. Together they raised six children: Gale Jr. “Chip” (Susan) Campbell; Kim (Rhett) Johnson; Kandy (Robert) Lahera; Keith (Karen) Campbell; Kathy M. Campbell; Kevin (Debbie) Campbell in Kathy’s hometown of South Tampa, FL. He loved his family fiercely and when he wasn’t working, he could be found coaching the kids’ football or baseball teams. Later in life Gale became the proud grandparent to nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren whom he adored with all his heart.
Gale loved being on the water, watching sports, and playing solitaire and crossword puzzles. His sparkling baby-blue eyes and sweet smile could light up a room. Gale would often peruse the obituary section looking for anyone older than he was – so to all the youngins reading this now, live life to the fullest and raise a bourbon to our beloved Dad and Papa.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.
(https://humanesocietytampa.org)
Service Information:
Venue for Service: Loggerhead Marina Club House
Address for Service: 5821 32nd Way S, St. Petersburg
Service Date: 2023-03-25
Service Start Time: 1:00 pm
