Suzanne Thames Gabert

Suzanne Thames Gabert, 86, of Huntsville, Alabama, entered into eternal rest on February 4, 2024. Born on August 18, 1937, in Harvey, Illinois, she was the cherished daughter of Bendt Philip Petersen and Sue Allen McCraney, both of whom preceded her in passing.

Left to honor Suzanne's memory are her son, Phillip Thames, his wife Linda Thames, Grand-daughter Katherine Thames, step-grand daughter Frances Emily Labore, her brother, Phil Petersen, cousin RoseAnne Kendrick and many nieces and nephews.

A proud alumna of Ramsay High School in Birmingham, Alabama, Suzanne furthered her education at the University of Alabama and Abilene Christian University, which laid the foundation for her distinguished professional life.

Suzanne was a well-known and important member of Huntsville's Business community. In 1965, Suzanne served as Operations Director for WAPI-TV in Birmingham, Alabama. After moving to Huntsville in 1966, Suzanne's career continued as Traffic Department Director, and then Promotion and Public Relations Director at WHNT-TV. She then served as Promotions Director of The Mall in Huntsville. She was a founding member and a 1st Vice President of the Huntsville Ad Club, and the first woman to be invited and accepted in to membership in the Sales and Marketing Executives Club of North Alabama. Suzanne ran her own Advertising Agency, The Thames Agency, and won an award for her logo design for Home Ice Company. She was involved with the Chamber of Commerce and the Public Relations Council of Alabama, where she was the very first female President. She served on many Boards of Directors including the Huntsville Press Club, Mental Health Association in Madison County, North Alabama Kidney Foundation (President), and Huntsville Community Chorus. Suzanne also spent time as Dining Room Manager for Valley Hill Country Club and Concierge at the Downtown Hilton. But, her most lasting legacy was 15 dedicated years as Manager of Mayfair Towers Apartments, followed by working as Volunteer Coordinator for Wiregrass Hospice. Her work ethic and commitment to excellence were hallmarks of her career.

In 2010, Suzanne retired and moved to Trussville, Alabama, married to the love of her life, Bill Gabert. Bill passed in July 2013, and she then moved back to Huntsville to live with her son, Phillip.

A member of the Mayfair Church of Christ in Huntsville, Suzanne loved and was well loved by her church community.

Suzanne found joy in singing, and community theater, and she appeared on-screen as an extra in Disney's "Tom and Huck."

The memorial service will be held at the Mayfair Church of Christ in the Garden Room on Sunday, February 18, 2024, at 2:00 PM.

Suzanne will be remembered for her grace, kindness, spark, and the indelible impact she had on the lives of those she touched. Her legacy will be cherished in the hearts of her family and friends.