H. Michael Gamble

Horace Michael Gamble, 72, passed away unexpectedly on August 12, 2024 in his home. He was known as Mike to his friends, and Dad or Papa to those that loved him so. He was born June 11,1952, in Jacksonville, Florida to the loving Horace Ernest Gamble and Beatrice Yvonne Andreu. His parents traveled between upstate New York (near his father’s hometown of Hounsfield) and Jacksonville, Florida during his childhood. He spent many days soaking up the fun and sun of Ramsey Shores East on Lake Ontario near Watertown, New York. He graduated from Samuel W. Wolfson High School in Jacksonville, in 1971 and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree from Trevecca Nazarene University in 1979. He was a proud member of the Trevecca Baseball team from 1971-1972. In 1972 he married Rebecca (Becky) Shields and had three children together who they adored. While both went on to remarry Mike and Becky remained in touch throughout their lives. In 2001, Mike and Tracy Cowart married and they were married for 10 years. He was the stepfather to Blaine and Brady.

After graduation he built a career in Sales and Sales leadership roles representing some of the biggest apparel and footwear brands in the world.

As a sales expert, he worked for notable companies such as Acme Boot Company, Reebok, Weebok, Dr. Martens, Skechers, Justin Boots, Rocky Mountain, Tommy Bahama, and Maui Jim. His years in sales offered him the opportunity to build lasting relationships and nurture friendships, many of whom he was still in contact with. Always a type A personality willing to teach, help, or take control of any situation.

In his free time, Mike enjoyed collecting and showcasing classic cars, which brought him joy and a continuous connection to his father’s passion. He was a Camaro enthusiast and had just attended the most recent Annual Camaro Nationals in July. His car received high scores and praise yielding him a Silver Recognition title which brought immense gratitude. Always busy at work preparing his 4 cars for shows and sharing his inimitable charm with other car enthusiasts.

He was also a lifelong member of Lake Houston Church of the Nazarene, where he sought salvation and led his family to pursue a relationship with God. Surrounding himself and his family constantly in prayer all the while in search of God’s miracles. Another passion he shared with his father.

Mike was a devoted family man, who loved his children and grandchildren above all else. He was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He is survived by his son Christopher Michael Gamble (Jillian) and daughters Courtney Colvin and Caleigh Stapleton (John); grandchildren Brooks Michael, Peyton, and Stella Gamble, Riley and Reagan Colvin, Kylie, Chloe, and Camden Wood. He is survived by his brother David Gamble (Caitlin) and sister Mary Hughes (Jim) and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation service will be held at Kingwood Funeral Home on August 23rd, from 5-8pm.

A funeral service will be held at One Church of the Nazarene on August 24th, at 10am, with his car collection and family on display as we honor him.

Mike will be dearly missed by all who experienced his love, but his legacy will live on through his family and friends.