Michael Jay Gammill, 67, peacefully passed away at home surrounded by his family on May 13, 2012 after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his devoted wife of 47 years, Karol Kellam Gammill and their loving daughters; Kristi Gammill Leonard and her husband Will of Beaumont, Mimi Gammill of New York City, Kasi Gammill Verschoyle and her husband Brooks of Dallas; and his pride and joy, his grandchildren; Anne and Claire Leonard and Brooks and Michael Jay Verschoyle. He is also survived by his sister Flo Gammill of Beaumont, his niece Catherine Cook of Los Angeles, her daughter Brett O’Brien of New York City and many other family members and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Dollie and Judson Gammill of Beaumont.
A life-long resident of Beaumont, Mike graduated from South Park High School. He played football for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks and graduated from Lamar University. He began his career as a distributor for Ingersoll Rand. He co-founded Associated Tools Specialties Company in 1976 and later established Gammill Pneumatics in 2005. He loved his work and always considered himself blessed. Surviving and thriving in a house full of women, he always placed his family and their interests first. Many know him for his unique expressions that said a million words and one-liners that only he could deliver. For those of us who loved him so very much, he will forever be our hero and gentle giant.
The family wishes to express their gratitude to Dr. George Thomas, Dr. John Miller, Dr. Randy Lombardo, Dr. Jay Schachner, the incredible nursing staff of the fourth floor Southeast Oncology Unit of Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital and Justin Cox of Professional Healthcare for their compassionate care.
A gathering of family and friends is taking place from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 16, 2012 at Broussard’s Mortuary, 2000 McFaddin, Beaumont. Funeral service will be held at 10:00am Thursday, May 17, 2012 at Trinity United Methodist Church, 3430 Harrison Avenue, Beaumont.
Serving as pallbearers will be Michael J. DeMayo, Edward B. Gripon, Thomas H. Kent, William S. Leonard, Jr., William S. Leonard III, Fred C. Moorer, Lonnie R. Mosley, Haywood H. Walker, Albert E. Williamson, and M. Brooks Verschoyle.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society of Southeast Texas, 2050 Spindletop Avenue, Beaumont, Texas 77705.
