Mabel Ruth Gammill

Mabel Ruth England Gammill
January 13, 1951 - April 7, 2026

Mabel Ruth Gammill, lovingly known as "Ruth" or "Ruthie" to those closest to her, went home to be with her Lord on the evening of April 7, 2026. She passed peacefully at her home in Cleveland, Tennessee, surrounded by the family she spent her life nurturing, following a courageous and grace-filled battle with ALS.

Born in the Walling community of Sparta, Tennessee, Ruth carried with her a deep-rooted faith and a steadfast work ethic that shaped every aspect of her life. For more than four decades, she faithfully served alongside her husband, Reverend Clarence D. Gammill, in ministry. For over 38 of those years, they pastored in Greeneville, Tennessee, where Ruth was not only a pastor's wife, but, as many recognized, a true co-pastor. Whether she was playing the piano, teaching Sunday School, or offering comfort and counsel, Ruth's quiet strength and compassion became the cornerstone of their shared ministry.

Ruth was also a devoted educator. She began her career teaching elementary school before transitioning into Adult Education in Greene County. She had a special gift for recognizing the potential in every student, helping many gain confidence through literacy and lifelong learning.

Outside of her ministry and teaching, Ruth found joy in creativity and nature. She was an avid gardener who delighted in seeing God's handiwork reflected in the soil, and a talented artist whose paintings captured the beauty of the world around her.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Omega and Mabel (Kirkpatrick) England; her brothers, Daniel and Lonnie Dean England; and her sisters, Mary Frances England and Tammy Michele England.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 55 years, Reverend Clarence D. Gammill, and her loving family: her daughter, Carol Lea (Gammill) Rice and husband Steve Rice; her grandson, Noah Rice; her "adopted" daughter, Sarah McKinnis; her sisters, Linda Hughes (Dennis), Peggy Glasscock (Billy), and Dana Drown (Richard); her sister-in-law, Teresa England; as well as four nieces, eight nephews, and a host of great-nieces and great-nephews who adored her. She also leaves behind her special longtime friend, Dalphna Swallows of Cleveland, Tennessee, and lifelong friend, Marilyn Jolley of Sparta, Tennessee.

The family will receive friends and loved ones on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Mt. Olive Church of God in Cleveland, Tennessee. Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mt. Olive Ministries in Cleveland, Tennessee.

Ruth lived her life as a true servant to all. Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, the seeds she planted-in her gardens, her classrooms, and her churches-will continue to bloom for generations to come.