Phyllis Gates Gamble

Phyllis Gamble Obituary Phyllis Gates Gamble was born at home on March 20,1939 in Lone Star, South Carolina to Cuff and Pearlie Gates, and was one of seven siblings. From an early age, her parents instilled in her the values of education, hard work and faith in God. Her father, a devoted farmer and World War I veteran, never learned how to read or write, but possessed deep wisdom and strength. Her mother, a dedicated teacher, believed in the power of learning and its connection to endless opportunities. Together, they passed down to Phyllis a respect for knowledge, resilience and service. At an early age she accepted Christ in her life and attended Haynes Chapel A.M.E church in Lone Star, South Carolina. These values would guide her throughout her life. Phyllis was a graduate of St. John High School in Cameron, South Carolina. In 1962 she earned her Bachelor’ s degree in Elementary Education from Morris College in Sumter, South Carolina. After graduation, she began her teaching career in South Carolina. In June 1964, Phyllis married Joseph Gamble and in August 1965, they welcomed their daughter Aurelia into their lives. She was a nurturing and loving mother to her only child Aurelia, whom she raised with the same principles that had been passed down from her parents. She did not believe in children being spoiled and she would provide everything that was needed and not desired. One of her favorite sayings to Aurelia especially at Christmas was “Every day is Christmas for you! You have a roof over your head, food to eat, clothes to wear, lights, gas, running water, and a car to ride in !” which meant she was not purchasing a bunch of toys. She believed in striving for the best for yourself and not settling for anything less and that you are just as smart and capable as anyone else and would say “ An intelligent person is not someone who knows all the answers but is someone who knows where to find the answers”. Phyllis later relocated to Cleveland, Ohio and once settled became a member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Warrensville Heights, Ohio. She continued teaching students in grades K-6 while furthering her education. In 1973, she earned a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from Cleveland State University in Cleveland, Ohio and a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling from St. John’s College in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1975. In 1979, she transitioned into guidance counseling and worked at A.B. Hart and John Hay High School in Cleveland, Ohio. Her dedication to education and youth development spanned 32 years, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students and colleagues. Beyond education, Phyllis was a dynamic, multi-talented professional and entrepreneur. She was a licensed real estate agent, working with Realty One, Century 21, and Tower High Realty. Passionate about wellness and beauty, she once owned an herbal store and after obtaining her Managing Manicurist license opened a small nail salon in one of the properties she owned. Phyllis was also deeply involved in her community and professional organizations. She was a proud member of the Cleveland Teachers Union, the Ohio Education Association, the American Federation of Teachers, the National Education Association, the American Business Womens Association, and the American Journal of Counselors. She generously volunteered her time with the East Cleveland Public Library Adult Target Read Program, Voter’s Service Club, and the Center for Human Services Site Committee. She was also a member of Top Ladies of Distinction, the Red Hat Society and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, embracing friendship, service and sisterhood. Phyllis extended her love beyond her home as a foster parent, opening her heart and home to children in need and nurturing them with compassion, patience and strength. Phyllis lived life with vibrance and joy. She loved to travel, read, dance, listen to music, visit museums and spend time in her garden. Most of all, she treasured time with her family, friends and her beloved dogs. Her laughter was infectious, and her warmth created a lasting bond with all who knew her. Phyllis transitioned to eternal rest on March 29, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, Cuff Gates (father), Pearlie Gates (mother), Mazell Payne (sister), Doris Hall (sister) Charles Gates (brother), Hercules Gates ( brother), and Havyard Johnson (brother). She is survived by her loving daughter, Aurelia C. Gamble-Greer (Steven), her dear brother Marion Gates of Bridgeport, Connecticut and many nieces and nephews, all of whom were incredibly special to her. She also leaves behind extended family and a wide circle of friends who will cherish her memory. The family extends deep appreciation and thanks to all of you. Your expressions of kindness, concern, prayers and love resonate through your outpouring of cards, flowers, visits, phone calls and hugs. We will be forever grateful. May God continue to Bless all of you. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Phyllis Gates Gamble, please visit our floral store. Read More

Phyllis Gates Gamble

March 20, 1939 - March 29, 2025