Donald L. Gambrell Sr.

Donald L. Gambrell Sr., 90, went home to the Lord on Sunday, November 2, 2025.

Donald was born on June 18, 1935, in New York City at The Presbyterian Children's Hospital, to Ms. Jamie P. Gambrell (1919-1969) of Greenville, South Carolina, and Asheville, North Carolina.

At the age of three, Donald lived in Troy, New York, where he was placed for adoption with Mr. and Mrs. Homer and Lula Matthews of Port Henry, New York, who became his foster grandparents. At the age of five, in 1940, his mother Jamie officially changed his last name from Carroll to Gambrell.

Donald attended Port Henry High School, where he played four years of both football and basketball. He grew up with a deep love for the outdoors and especially enjoyed traveling and fishing. Donald was employed by the Delaware and Hudson Railroad prior to his military service. He later proudly served his country in both the United States Army and the United States Marine Corps. He was stationed in Germany for four years during his time in the military. During his time in the military, Donald demonstrated dedication, discipline, and a strong sense of duty qualities that would carry through the rest of his life.

Donald took great pride in his career as a professional driver, a role he fulfilled for many years. He also found joy in serving his community by driving for Mount Calvary Baptist Church, where he faithfully transported members to and from services and church events. Donald was a loving and devoted father, grandfather, and friend. He found great joy in spending time with his family and creating lasting memories together.
Donald was united in marriage to the late Mrs. Elizabeth Johnson-Gambrell, who passed away in 2017, and to the late Mrs. Janie Gambrell, who preceded her in death in 2008.

Donald leaves to cherish sons Micheal Gambrell grandson Davin Gambrell (Robin), Great grandchildren Kingston. Lyric, Gabriel, Karim and Serenity. Donald Leo Gambrell Jr (Alunda) Granddaughter Alexis Gambrell- great grand daughter Ayla, Grandsons Darius and Elijah Gambrell. Grandson Jeffrey Gambrell, great granddaughter GiGi and great grand Son Jeff Jr. and granddaughter Janelle Gambrell great Grandson TJ and God daughter Lynda Yost. Victoria Miller (Curtis), Christopher Johnson (Marionette), Lolita Brace (Thomas), Douglas Johnson (Paula), Lisa Johnson, Jeffrey Johnson, Marc Johnson and Leslie Stewart. Donald (35) Grandchildren, (53) Great-Grandchildren and (78) Great-Great Grandchildren. And a host of friends and family.

He was predeceased by sons Henry Lee Parker, Richard (Mack) Parker, James (Jim) Morris & daughter Christine Johnson.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the hospice services, Mount Calvary Baptist Church. and St. Peter's Hospital for their care, comfort, and compassion during Donald's final days.

Donald's memory will live on through his children, grandchildren, and all those whose lives he touched. His kindness, laughter, and love will never be forgotten.
With love always,
The Gambrell & Johnson Family

Family and Friends are invited to attend Visitation on Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 9:00 am - 10:00 am with a Service to begin promptly at 10:00 am in Mount Calvary Baptist Church, 58 Alexander St, Albany, NY 12202.