Steven Wardlaw Gambrell

Steven Wardlaw Gambrell, age 68, passed away on September 27, 2025. Steven was the son of David Wardlaw Gambrell and Tina Gambrell. He was born in 1957 in Greenville, South Carolina. He graduated from Wade Hampton High School in 1975. Steven received his bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and completed his Master’s Degree at University of Tennessee.

Steven worked with NASA in Huntsville, AL, and eventually settled into being a speech and communications instructor at University of Alabama.

Steven had a tremendous love for cycling which began early in life. He would trek the back roads riding from Greenville to Charleston or Knoxville. His long cycling rides continued until he was no longer able to bike.

Steven’s musical ability with voice, keyboard, and composition were his greatest love which began when he was in the Wade Hampton High Singers and lasted his whole life. He was extremely gifted in voice and piano.

Steven was preceded in death by his parents. He leaves behind his sister, Julie Gambrell of Greenville; sister Lisa Gambrell (Dr. Lynn Telford) of Black Mountain, and chosen sister, Barbara Yonce of Greenville. He also leaves behind several beloved cousins and a special aunt. Steven’s life was enriched by kindness, generosity and love of his Tuesday lunch buddy, John Reilly.

A special thank you to his sister-in-law, Dr. Lynn Telford, for her constant care, guidance, and love over these years of declining health.

Services for Steven will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at Mackey Funerals and Cremations at Woodlawn, 1 Pine Knoll Drive, Greenville, SC 29609. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM followed by the funeral at 2:00 PM in the funeral home chapel. Burial will be in Woodlawn Memorial Park immediately after the service. Services will be conducted by The Rev. Mary Kathleen Duncan.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Montreat Conference Center, PO Box 969, Montreat, NC 28757, www.montreat.org.