LTC Charles Eldon Gambrell, USAF (ret.), 82, of Pensacola, FL passed away Tuesday, January 21, 2020.

Charles was born on December 8, 1937 in Old Hickory, TN to Earl and Wilma Esther Gambrell. After graduating high school, he joined the Air Force in 1956. He earned a bachelor's degree from Inter-American University in Puerto Rico as well as master's degrees from the Air Command Staff College and Auburn University. Charles excelled as a C-130 Navigator while serving and ultimately retired from the Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel after 23 years. Over the span of his military career, Charles earned many awards and decorations including three Air Force Meritorious Service Awards, two Air Medals, four Commendation Awards, National Defense Medal, Antarctica Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross. After retiring from the Air Force, he became a successful Real Estate Broker and owner of Rainbow Realty. Some of Charles' greatest joys were being outdoors, playing golf and spending time with his family.

Charles is preceded in death by his son Cory, sister Faye, and brothers Glenn and Randy.

Survivors include his loving wife of 36 years, Diane Gambrell; seven children, Craig Gambrell (Susan), Carin Brown (Kyle), Brian Sabourin (Jean), Barbara Boland, Jim Sabourin (Kat), Theresa Case, and Keith Driver (Chris); a sister, Earline, as well as 16 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

Private family memorial services will be held at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital in memory of Charles Gambrell.