Brother, husband, father, grandfather and founder of the North Jefferson News, Gary Mack Gamble died Sunday, Oct. 6, 2013, in his home in Altoona from complications caused by esophageal cancer. He was 66 years old.

Gary was born in Cullman County to Rissie Mae and Mack Gamble. Both of his parents preceded him in death. Educated at Phillips High School, he joined the special forces as an airborne trooper of the Army National Guard in the late sixties, during the Vietnam War. He was not deployed before the war’s end. A fiercely independent and entrepreneurial spirit, Gary was self-employed for much of his life. His businesses ranged from print shops to advertising companies. In 1970, he founded the North Jefferson News, which he ran for many years.

Gary married five years ago with Lavenia “Beanie” Streetman. He spent the final years of his life building a beautiful home with her—often entertaining dozens of family and friends with huge gatherings. Previously he had been married to Paulette Howell and fathered three sons; Kirk, Matthew and Adam.

He is remembered for his dedication to his family and for his love of nature. For most of his adult life he made annual trips with his family and friends to Elkmont campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Gatlinburg, Tenn., where he taught his sons to build fires, fish and enjoy their natural surroundings. One of his favorite things was to show everyone around his property in Altoona, and share his love of the land and nature with which he had surrounded their home.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Beanie; his three sons and their spouses, Kirk, Dawn, Matt, Mary, Adam and Monica; his two step-daughters and their spouses, Jenny, Rob, Amanda and David; his brother and his wife, Doug and Tina; his sister, Phyllis; his grandchildren; Joshua, Jordan, T.J., Jared, Elizabeth, Lydia, Abigail, Joey, Nick, Harper, Wyatt and Eli who is on the way, and many cousins including Donnie and Janet Latta with whom he was very close.

A memorial service will be held Saturday October 12 at noon at his home in Altoona.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Lawley Premier Hospice Care for their support in his final days.