Burnis Gamble

Burnis Gamble was born in Olanta, South Carolina to the late Columbus Hickson and Bessie Cooper. He was reared by his loving grandmother Cissy Gamble who adopted him as a young child. Burnis was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, the late Lillie Bell Gamble, and to this union, seven children were born.

Burnis was a kind and gentle man who lived his life with honor and integrity. As the owner of Gamble Cement Finishing Company, he worked throughout Florence and Williamsburg Counties, and his work remains evident on countless commercial and residential properties. As the head of his household, he was committed to providing for his family and instilled a strong work ethic, respectfulness, and compassion in his children.

Burnis accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Savior at an early age at Jordan Chapel Freewill Baptist Church and began his spiritual journey which shaped his life for Christian ministry. He and his wife reared their children at Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, Lake City, SC. Later, they moved their membership to St. Stephens Baptist Church, Lake City, SC. Afterwards, they joined St. Mark Believers Holiness Church, Lake City, SC and remained in excess of 50 years where he served faithfully in numerous capacities such as: Chairman of Trustees, Chairman of the Finance Committee, member of the Gospel Choir, member of the Senior Choir and oversaw numerous church projects until his health declined.

In his later years, Burnis faced several health challenges, but he remained strong and determined to keep living life to its fullest. While residing at Ron McNair Nursing Home, Lake City, SC, Burnis was one of the liveliest residents who filled the corridors with laughter and conversation.

On Monday, May 1, 2023, Burnis found favor with our Creator who called him from labor to reward. As much as he is missed, Burnis is with our heavenly Father, and his family takes comfort in knowing that he is now at peace along with relatives who preceded him: his wife, two sons, Waitus “Squeeky” Gamble and Audrey “Toonie” Gamble, seven sisters and one brother.

Burnis leaves to cherish his memory Co-Pastor Evangelene (Reverend Larry) Barnes of Sumter, SC, Marion (Verlinda) Gamble of Coward, SC, Charles (Marie) Gamble of Lake City, SC, Charlie (Shirley) Gamble of Florence, SC and Bernard Gamble of Lake City, SC; sixteen grandchildren, twenty-nine great grandchildren, seven great, great grandchildren; one sister-in-law Hattie Cooper of Miami FL; a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends who loved him dearly.