Nathan Travis Gann was born on February 22, 1937, in Bruce, Mississippi, to William George W. Gann and Martha Caroline Hamblin Gann. He was raised in Sledge, Mississippi, where he learned the values of integrity, perseverance, and service that guided him throughout his life.
He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for one tour of duty before returning home to begin his life’s work and raise his family.
In 1963, Travis married his beloved wife Joan Marie Russell. Together they shared 62 devoted years of marriage until her passing on August 19, 2025. Their marriage was a beautiful example of love, commitment, and partnership.
Travis was the owner of Russell Tire Company, where he spent many years serving his community. He was privileged to work alongside his father-in-law, Ray Russell, building the family business, and later had the joy of working side by side with his son, Steven Gann. He took great pride in his work and the relationships he built over the years.
Travis and Joan were founding members of the Gann Historical Society. Through this organization they traveled extensively and made lifelong friendships with Ganns all over the world.
Travis was a faithful member of Providence Baptist Church, where he served as church treasurer for many years. He quietly and faithfully gave of his time and talents, reflecting the deep faith that was the foundation of his life.
Travis’s greatest joy was his family. Travis is survived by his children, Lorrie Gann Hunley (Terry), Julie Marie Gann, and Steven Russell Gann (Dana); his grandchildren, Daniel Hunley, Ashton Hunley Pool (Matt), and Madison Gann; and his treasured great-grandson, Graham Allen Pool.
Travis will be remembered for his gentle nature, unwavering faith, quiet strength, and steadfast dedication to those he loved. Whether at church, at work, or at home with his family, he lived a life marked by honesty, kindness, humility, and service. His legacy will live on in the family he cherished and the countless lives he touched through his example.
His visitation will be held at Providence Baptist Church, 4351 N Germantown Pkwy, Arlington, TN 38002, US, on August 6, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, followed by the Funeral Service at the same location at 2:00 pm.
A Graveside Service will take place at Memphis Memory Gardens, 6444 Raleigh Lagrange Road, Memphis, TN 38134, US, on August 6, 2026, at 3:30.
