Donald D. Gambill's Obituary
GAMBILL, Donald D., age 69, of South Lebanon, formerly of Portsmouth, Ohio, passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
Donald dedicated over 30 years of his life working in excavation and construction with Ball Brothers in Monroe, where he was a hardworking and dependable truck driver. Donnie was saved at his “Maw’s” funeral several years ago, which led him to become a man of faith who held a deep faith in God throughout his life. In addition, years after being saved, Donnie and his wife (“affectionately known as "Donnie and Bonnie”) were baptized together.
Donald was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who had a deep love for life’s simple pleasures. He became an incredible cook and will be especially remembered for his country-style cooking. His biscuits and gravy and big breakfast, along with liver, onions, fried potatoes, and other savories, will always be remembered fondly by family. He was a passionate Cincinnati Bengals fan and rarely missed a game, often spending Sunday afternoons enjoying football at home. He loved fishing, especially alongside his wife, and cherished evenings by the fire, cooking out, and relaxing at the fishing hole by the gravel pit. Donald had a knack for buying, selling, and trading, frequently visiting thrift stores and yard sales, always on the lookout for a good find. He enjoyed staying connected through Facebook and was known for posting messages often, usually in the form of religious encouragement, political views, comments, and ideas about his beloved Bengals, and especially for reminding drivers to wear their seatbelts when troopers were posted in town. An animal lover at heart, he cared for many pets over the years and even had a soft spot for wildlife. Above all, he loved attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and being present for their lives. He was known as hardworking, supportive, helpful, family-oriented, caring, and loyal—especially to his wife and family, and he never met a stranger.
Family traditions were an important part of Donald’s life. He enjoyed regular phone calls, both in the morning and evening, just about every day, with his brother-in-law Jimmy, often discussing politics and current events. In addition, he always looked forward to attending the Perry family reunions, a tradition spanning over 60 years, where his wife's family gathered at the country cemetery in West Liberty, Kentucky, to share a potluck meal and remember family members who had passed away. On his side of the family, he never missed an opportunity to gather with family during the Eldridge family reunions. Always family-oriented, Donald often dressed up as Santa Claus to entertain his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, a tradition his family will always cherish. These traditions were meaningful opportunities to connect, share stories, and spend time with loved ones.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jennifer Shepherd; his parents, Shirley Wheeler and Thomas Gamble Sr.; and his sister, Diane Gambill. He is survived by his spouse of 26 years and together 42 years, Bonnie; his sons, Jason (Tina) Gambil, Nathan (Delta) Gambill, and David Williams; his daughters, Nancy (Charles) White and Lisa Munday; 14 grandchildren, Sean, Alivia, Emily, Nathan Jr., Tyler, Alex, Kristyona, Shyann, Josh, Brittany, Scott, Amber, Chelsea, Sydney; eight great grandchildren, Cooper, Ryder, Jaxon, Gavin, Tristan, Reagen, Lydia, and Quinn; his brother, Tommy Gambill Jr.; his sisters, Susie (Scott) Swords and Paula Orozco (Kim Conley); along with numerous extended family, and friends.
Family and friends will be received from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Stubbs-Conner Funeral Home in Waynesville, where a funeral service will begin at 5:00 PM with Craig Roberts officiating. A committal service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday at Scioto Burial Park in McDermott, Ohio. If desired, contributions may be made to the SPCA in Donald’s memory, as he had a deep love for animals. Condolences may be made to the family at https://www.stubbsconner.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Donald?
What’s a lesson you learned from Donald?
Share a story where Donald's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Donald you’ll never forget.
How did Donald make you smile?
