William Lowell Gunn

William Lowell Gunn, 78, died peacefully on Saturday, April 21, 2015. He was surrounded by his loving wife of 54 years, Betty Scruggs Gunn, and his entire family. Bill graduated from Birmingham-Southern College with a major in history. He then graduated from Candler School of Theology at Emory University. As an ordained elder of the United Methodist Church, Bill served 43 years in the North Alabama Conference. In chronological order, he served at Anniston First United Methodist Church, Altoona United Methodist, New Brashiers Chapel in Arab, St. Paul's United Methodist in Birmingham, Canterbury United Methodist, Ashland First Methodist Church, Christ United Methodist Church in Jasper, Oakmont United Methodist in Homewood, Bessemer First United Methodist Church, and St. Mark's United Methodist in Anniston. Even after he retired from formal ministry, Bill continued to speak and teach at Canterbury United Methodist Church. His avocation matched his vocation. His entire life was dedicated to practicing his faith and to loving his family. He is survived by his wife, Betty Gunn; his brother, Bob Gunn; his children, Amelia Spencer (Brad), William Gunn, Jr., and Catherine Walker (Clete); and eight precious grandchildren, Graham Spencer, Liza Spencer, Wesley Walker, Griffin Walker, Mary Virginia Spencer, Caleb Walker, Isaias Spencer, and James Spencer. A memorial service to celebrate Bill's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, March 24, 2015 at Canterbury United Methodist Church. Visitation with the family will begin at 9:30. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Camp Sumatanga or to Birmingham-Southern College. The family wishes to extend its heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Connie and Mr. David Rupert and to Ms. Sara O'Neal of Alacare Hospice.