Billie Upchurch Gayle

She was born on January 26, 1928 in Nashville, Tennessee to the late Gilliam and Grace Keith Upchurch. Before moving to Chattanooga in 1960, she worked for Cain Sloan (which is now known as Dillard’s) and Levi’s Men’s Clothing Store in Nashville.

In 1964, she and her husband, Bob Gayle bought the first of many insurance agencies, forming the Bob Gayle Insurance Agency. She and Bob worked together for 34 years and retired together in 1998.

They enjoyed traveling, camping, fishing, dancing, and playing cards with friends. They had been in every state, except Alaska and enjoyed traveling in their motorhome to see the country.

Billie was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Gayle; son, Ronnie Gayle; daughter, Charlene Gayle Williams; her parents; sisters, Clara McPherson and Lillie Mercer; brothers, Herbert, Buford and Lynn Upchurch.

She is survived by her loving son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Libby Gayle; grandchildren, Pam Lieu, Paige Maurer, Ronnie Arnold, Jennifer Chandler, Nathan Gayle, William Harrison, Michelle Harrison;13 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

A private family graveside service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chattanooga at: www.rmhchattanooga.com

Please share your thoughts and memories at: www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com

Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, 8214 East Brainerd Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421.