Michael Ray Campbell

Michael Ray "Mike" Campbell, age 67, of Gadsden, Alabama, passed away peacefully Sunday August 3rd, after a period of declining health. Throughout his life, Mike held fast to hope, and his family takes comfort in knowing he is now at peace and in the presence of his Savior.

Mike was born in Gadsden, Alabama on October 25, 1957 to Ray and Elaine Campbell. He spent most of his life in the community he always considered home attending pre-school, junior high and high school in Altoona, Gadsden, Hokes Bluff respectively. He moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee where he lived for nearly 25 years and many long lasting friendships were made. He was known for his outgoing spirit, sharp wit, and the kind of personality that could light up a room. Mike never met a stranger and had a way of making people feel like old friends.

Mike was a father to lan Campbell (Tausha) and Camille Trahan (Joshua), and he took pride in the people they became. He shared these children with Andrea Scialdone and Rhonda Campbell, respectively. He recently became a grandfather for the first time to Lillian Kae Campbell (2023). She brought him laughter and a renewed sense of joy.

A lifelong University of Alabama fan whose passion for the Crimson Tide was second to none. Whether it was cheering on Saturdays in the fall, proudly wearing Crimson and White or sharing a spirited RTR greeting with anyone who would listen, he embodied the heart and pride of Alabama football. One of his proudest moments came when his daughter Camille graduated from Alabama (2011) carrying on the tradition and love for the school that meant so much to him. Through the many victories and even some of the lean years before Saban, Mike's loyalty never wavered, and game days were cherished moments spent with family and friends. Mike's love for Alabama was more than just football, it was a part of who he was, a legacy that will live on in the memories and stories shared by those who knew him.

He had a love for the Gulf Coast, especially Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and the Flora-Bama Mike found peace in the salt air and sunshine, and he made a point to get away to the coast whenever he could. That love for the beach carried through to both of his children, who each made the coast home in recent years.

A devoted son, Mike spent his later years caring for his beloved mother, Elaine Campbell. He was preceded in death by his father, James Ray Campbell, who passed away in 2000.

He is survived by his sister Jayne Campbell Clark of Gadsden, and his brother Jon Mark Campbell of Vestavia.

Mike's life was a blend of joy and struggle, laughter and loss. He faced personal challenges that shaped his story, but through it all, his love for his family, his passion for people, and his enduring faith never wavered. His journey is a reminder of the beauty, complexity, and grace that can exist side by side in a life fully lived.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 9, in the chapel of First Baptist Church in Gadsden with visitation from 11 - 12 with service to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for continued prayers and acts of kindness toward those walking through difficult seasons of their own.