BILLY GRAHAM GAMBLE Oct. 31, 1925 – March 8, 2017
Billy Graham Gamble was born to Mary Elizabeth Tidrick Gamble and Russell Gamble in Winterset, Iowa October 31, 1925. He died March 8, 2017 in Espanola, New Mexico, with family by his side.
Billy was 91 years young, and lived a full and adventuresome life. The youngest of four boys, Billy was the explorer of the family. This beginning led to being a Boy Scout Leader when his son was in Scouting, to opening a museum in Aguilar, Colorado in his later years. Billy lived in the back of this museum, an old J.C. Penny building, and delighted in sharing his lifelong collection of Americana with visitors.
Billy delighted in his four children, and was very involved in their upbringing. Camping was always an adventure, as were trips to the local swimming pool or trips to corn fields near the Mississippi River to hunt for Indian beads.
In the mid 60s Billy moved his family from Iowa to New Mexico, by train! His first job was delivering milk for Creamland Dairies in Albuquerque. A milk station was installed in the family home. Milk was plentiful!
Billy had a great love for his faith, and went to Bible study classes throughout his life.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Carroll and Jack Gamble. He was also preceded in death by the mother of his children, Betty Jane Frerichs. He is survived by his older brother Clair, and children Jane Anne Longmire, Ronald Lee Gamble (Christine), Patricia Sue Varney (John) and Julie Kay Gamble, 7 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at White Rock United Methodist Church, 580 Meadow Lane, 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 15, 2017. Family gives special thanks to staff of Espanola Valley Nursing and Rehab facility and AmberCare. Special thanks to Dr. Maley, Sandra, Henry, Daniel, Emily, Dennis and Mary Ann, who made Billy happy and comfortable during his final months. And a big thank you to those who provided Billy chocolates and candies, his favorite foods!
In lieu of flowers, donations to Espanola Valley Nursing Home, 720 Calle Hacienda, Espanola, NM 87532, for a memorial gift will be greatly appreciated.
