Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, brother Charles Donald Campbell, sister Margie Sue Campbell Farrar and wife of 62 years Nellie Louise Winfrey Campbell. He is survived by his daughter Sylvia Campbell Hickey, sister Erdis Ann Purcell, brother Karon Gale Campbell, three grandsons; Robert Reed Flocks II, Reagan Conner Flocks, Halston Ridge Hickey, and surrogate daughter Michelle Oglesby who loved her Papa dearly.
Though Gerald was born in Huttig, most of his early life was lived in Star City, Arkansas until 1945. Gerald sang Gospel music from an early age so he left Star City to attend the Stamps Music School in Dallas, Texas. Soon after, he was selected to sing tenor with the Stamps Baxter Quartet. He traveled and sang with them and other Gospel music groups until 1950. Gospel music was very important to him and he continued to sing the praises of Lord throughout his life. He finished his singing career as music director at the Cherrywood Baptist Church in Sherwood, Arkansas. He continued his Gospel music career until his death saving performances from old reel to reel and cassette tape and preserving them on CD.
In 1950, he married Nellie Louise Winfrey in Newport, Arkansas. That may have ended his quartet travels, but they traveled to many exotic and unusual places throughout their life together. They were joined on this life long trip in Hawaii by their daughter Sylvia Lou. As a military family, they served in many varied places. Gerald served with distinction in the 48th and 59th Fighter Bomber Wings during the Korean War. After that tour of duty, he chose to remain in the United States Air Force for a total of 26 years finally retiring in 1977. He received many awards and medals in recognition of his dedication and innovation while serving his country near and far in places as K-13, K-16, Barksdale AFB, Little Rock AFB, Hickam AFB, the Pentagon, Kincheloe AFB, and other places unmentioned.
Gerald was an avid sports person who enjoyed hunting, fishing, football, basketball, softball, golf, and bowling. He loved the Arkansas Razorbacks. He played football and basketball at Star City High School, but afterward excelled as a fast pitch softball pitcher, Pro-Am golfer, and bowler at every Air Force facility where such activities were provided. His house is actually littered with trophies, patches, and awards of all kinds from his winning ways. Gerald Campbell lived a long and interesting life. He touched many lives along the way and though he could be a tough taskmaster he had a strong desire to help others. His often gruff exterior was used to hide a kind and generous heart while it quietly provided unacknowledged aid and support to so many.
