Earl Wayne Gambill

Earl Wayne Gambill

August 20, 2025

Earl Wayne Gambill, who many simply knew as "Big E," passed away at Watauga Medical Center on August 20, 2025, surrounded by family and friends who cherished him deeply. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Opal Gambill; his in-laws, Joel and Margaret Icenhour; his brother, racing partner, and best friend, Sonny Gambill; his brother, Bill Gambill; and his beloved grandchildren, Lauren and Hunter.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary Ann Gambill; his brother, Bill Heck and wife Melinda; sister-in-law, Brenda Gambill; and sister-in-law and cherished next-door neighbor, Gail Gambill. He is also survived by his daughter, Beverly Gambill (Melanie); and his son, Wayne Gambill (Ladeana). His grandchildren include Sadie Fletcher-Visser and husband Derek Visser, Tyler Gambill, Clay Fletcher, Brycen Gambill, Mason Gambill, Makayla Bilodeau, Joey Bilodeau, Ryan Bilodeau, Anna Porter, Clara Porter, Evan Glenn, and Sydney Glenn. His great-grandchildren include Parker Lundy, Patton Lundy, and Lincoln Visser. He also leaves behind nieces Mischelle, Lisa, and Joyce; nephew Billy; and special great- nephews, Dylan and Connor Simcox, who shared his love of racing and carried on his passion for the sport.

Earl was a man of strong faith. He was a devoted member of Calvary Baptist Church, where he faithfully led the choir and taught Sunday school. He also shared his love of gospel music as a member of The Joymakers, spreading the word of God through song. Known to his grandchildren as "Papaw Buck," Earl was an avid outdoorsman who loved the woods and the thrill of the hunt. If he had a tag for it, no animal was safe, and he took great pride in the trophy bucks that filled his trophy room. Alongside hunting, racing was his greatest joy. Earl had a lifelong passion for drag racing, often spending weekends at the tracks in Wilkesboro or Bristol. His most recent car, affectionately named Ol' Rivers, was one of his proudest projects, and he poured both skill and heart into keeping it ready for the strip. The thrill of the track, the roar of engines, and the friendships made in the racing community were woven into the fabric of his life. He also enjoyed relaxing at home watching westerns, never tiring of the old stories and familiar heroes that brought him comfort.

Earl's love for life was found in the little things, too. He could always be counted on for a glass of unsweetened tea and a paper bag of chicken nuggets. He took great pride in his yard, making sure it was always mowed to perfection. He absolutely adored his grandchildren, and he thought the moon was hung the day his great-grandchildren were born. For them, he spent countless days cheering from shaky bleachers, concrete stands, and overfilled gyms, always there with love and support.

He dedicated more than 30 years of service to TVA before retiring-only to continue giving back by running the Mountain City Pool and helping at the Community Center. Earl had a special place in his heart for the lifeguards he worked alongside each season and for the children who came through the pool gates. His presence there was more than a job; it was a ministry of encouragement and care for the youth of his community. Earl was truly a pillar of his community. To know him was to know patience, kindness, and unconditional love. He was a man of deep understanding, empathy, and quiet strength-an anchor for his family and friends. His legacy will live on in the lives of those he touched, and his memory will forever bring comfort and joy.

As we say goodbye, we picture him in the woods with a steady aim, on the track with Ol' Rivers roaring down the strip, in Heaven's choir singing praises to his Savior, and here on earth in every well-kept yard, every family gathering, every set of bleachers, and maybe even in a turkey strutting across a field or a big buck crossing the road.

The family will receive friends from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Calvary Baptist Church. The funeral service will follow at 4 p.m. with Pastors Steven Spencer and Sam Icenhour officiating. The graveside service and burial will follow at Johnson Cemetery. Pallbearers are Clay Fletcher, Tyler Gambill, Brycen Gambill, Mason Gambill, Dylan Simcox, Connor Simcox, and Derek Visser. Honorary Pallbearers are Keith Blevins, Timmy Potter, Larry Miller, Bob Heck, the Adult Sunday School Class at Calvary Baptist Church, Parker Lundy, Patton Lundy, Terry Gambill, Gary Gambill, Tommy Rhymer, Earl's Lifeguards of the Mountain City Pool, Ryan Bilodeau, and Joey Bilodeau.

At other times, family and friends may visit the home at 186 Church Lane, Mountain City, TN 37683.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Awana program at Calvary Baptist Church, 1354 Cold Springs Rd, Mountain City, TN 37683.

Condolences may be sent to the family through our website at www.mountaincityfh.com.

The family of Earl Gambill has entrusted his services to Mountain City Funeral Home, 224 S. Church Street, Mountain City, TN 37683.