Gayle Norman Allsup 77, of Gadsden passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday August 11, 2013 after a lengthy battle with cancer. A time of fellowship & remembrance will be held Friday August 16, 2013, at James Memorial Baptist Church, Fellowship Hall at 2125 Ewing Avenue, North Gadsden from 6-8:00 PM. He is survied by his wife, Margaret Dyer Allsup and loving sister Frances Allsup Cargal. He was preceeded in death by his parents, Robert Frank (Slats) Allsup and Alma Billingsly Allsup, and sister, Dean Annette Allsup .
Gayle fell in love with and married Margaret. God blessed their marriage and guided them through a union that spanned over 54 years. Setting an example for those who knew them, that true love stands the test of time. The Allsup's marriage produced two sons, Zac Allsup (Kathy Skelton), & Zane Allsup (JoMarie Roden). Their grandchildren are Tana Allsup Estes (Eric), Jessica Allsup, Kendra Seahorn Poe (Clay), Michael Brandon Skelton (Stephanie Forrester), John Christopher Skelton (Cory Ramsey) great grandchildren, Channing Elizabeth Estes, Kinleigh Grace Poe, Tristin and Trevor Poe, Garrett and Sydney Skelton, & Stone Skelton were additional blessings.
A life-long resident of Gadsden, Gayle attended Gadsden High where he played football and was a member of the Velvatone Choir. Blessed with a beautiful singing voice, his talent was an inspiration to all of those who heard him sing. Gayle served his country in the Air Force where he was based in California. While in service he played fast pitch softball winning many awards. Gayle also was a very dedicated employee of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company for more than 38 years where many would say he was the very best at what he did and always strived for excellence.
Known throughout Gadsden sports circles, Gayle was acclaimed as the, "Fast Pitch King", when Fast Pitch Softball was first introduced in Gadsden. Gayle was a great sports fan supporting and promoting little league, pony league & high school baseball for many years. A more dedicated Alabama Crimson Tide Football fan would be hard to find. He loved Jehovah God and all of his many brothers and sisters at the Kingdom Hall. Gayle loved his family and was the most generous person you would ever meet. He had a servant's heart and loved helping his fellow man. He will be missed greatly!!
In leiu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to the Amercican Cancer Society. https://donate.cancer.org.