Bill Gamel, age 80, passed away at home surrounded by his family on the 27th of April 2026. Born on March 23, 1946, in Birmingham, Alabama, Bill lived a life marked by dedication to family, faith, community and broadcasting.

Bill attended Phillips High School. He then pursued studies at Columbia School of Broadcasting, the FCC Engineering School in Atlanta and The University of Alabama. From 1964 until 1970 he proudly served in the Alabama National Guard with the 109th Evacuation Hospital. He was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church.

Bill devoted more than four decades to the broadcasting profession, including 31 years at WCBI, where he became a familiar and trusted voice throughout the region. During those years he co-hosted “Sunrise” and “Midday” earning the respect and affection of colleagues and viewers alike. In recognition of his outstanding career and contributions to broadcasting, Bill was inducted into the Mississippi-Louisiana Associated Press Association Hall of Fame in 2017.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, he embraced life with enthusiasm and adventure. In his younger years he was an avid sportsman who played semi-professional football with the Birmingham Steelers and enjoyed martial arts, scuba diving and golf. He was a devoted and lifelong fan of the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Evelyn Gamel; his sisters, Barbara Pearson and Ethel Redman; and his brother, Charles Gamel.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan McKenzie Gamel; sons, Michael McKenzie, Bradley McKenzie and his wife Nicole; grandsons, Luke and Landon McKenzie; sister, Mary Sellers; brother-in- law, Jimmy Ball and his wife Mary Lynn Ball; along with many cherished nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Bill will be remembered for his warm voice, generous spirit, quick wit, and unwavering love for his family and friends. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched both on and off the air.

A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church, Starkville, MS, on Saturday, the 9th of May. Visitation is from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00, and the service will be at 12:00 noon.

Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice. You can leave the family a condolence at www. welchfuneralhomes.com.