Orville Roy (Gabe) Gambrel peacefully passed away in the early hours of December 1, 2022 from the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. He was a resident of the Life Care Center in Palm Bay at the time of his death under hospice care from Vitas Healthcare. Gabe was born July 2, 1941 in Twila, Kentucky to Frank and Mazzie Gambrel.
After graduating from Wallins Creek High School he joined the United States Air Force. Throughout his military career he was stationed in Texas, Alaska, Vietnam, Ohio, Turkey, Missouri, and Iceland. He retired after 20 years of dedicated service to Florida and worked for the post office for 22 years before fully retiring. Gabe enjoyed a variety of hobbies such as shrimping, fishing and bowling. His greatest passion was Kentucky Wildcats Basketball as he was their #1 fan!
Gabe will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 60 years, Betty Gambrel. Beloved father to his son, Patrick Gambrel and daughters, Angela Gambrel and Debora Reed. Affectionately known as “Pappaw” to his surviving 7 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. He will also be dearly missed by his beloved puppy, Snuggles.
He was predeceased by his parents, 5 brothers, 8 sisters, and his granddaughter Krystal Gambrel.
Services will be held Saturday, December 17th in the Life Event Center at Florida Memorial Gardens located at 5950 US-1 S. Visitation will start at 1pm, followed by services at 2pm and he will be laid to rest at 3pm.
Those wishing to make a donation may do so to the Brevard Alzheimer's Foundation or sent directly to Joe’s Club at 4676 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32935.
