Carl was that special guy that showed up with energy like no one else-excited full of life. He was uplifting to others and showed the love of Christ when he walked in a room. He was the most passionate about things in life and had a heart of gold.  Our family enjoyed his families friendship (Carl’s great stories) throughout the years/ball fields.  We  pray for peace and comfort during this difficult time for Rene and all the family.  They have endure more than anyone should.  Carl had so much life still left to live but we know he has a new body in Christ and in no more pain. His homecoming with his son and other loved ones is grand. Well Done My Child are words the Lord will welcome him with. A good one gone too soon. We send our love to you Rene.. So sorry for your loss. 
Brad and April Henry 


Carl coached all three of my girls in gymnastics. He even opened up his home for private lessons with them last summer. His knowledge, patience, inspiration, and humor were such a gift to them. They grew in confidence and learned so much from him. Beyond gymnastics though, they learned about what it looks like to love with your whole heart.  During that trying season he was openly tearful and honest about the struggles his kids and grandkids were facing. His heart was so full of love for them, and it was breaking over their pain. He was so grateful for Rene's strength. He knew that she was completely relying on Christ during these storms, and he was thankful for everyone's prayers and support. 
We know you are doing flips in heaven! 
We will miss you Carl

Carl taught tumbling and gymnastics to  many children through the years at Parks & Recreation.  He had a great sense of humor and was always a dedicated person and instructor!  We are thankful to Carl for blessing many people in the community with his talents and personality!

I met Carl pretty soon after moving to Maryville in 1992.  I hired him to mow my lawn and he became a dear friend.  Even after I went back to mowing my own yard we remained friends. Carl was a kind and gentle man.  His honesty and compassion were just two of his qualities that impressed me.  He was devoted to his family and friends.  He was quiet but friendly and I always enjoyed our conversations.

Blessings of comfort and peace to you Renee and the family. 

I’m grateful for having the chance to meet him and Rene, in 2011. Their love for children and gymnastics was inspiring to me as a daycare teacher. I witnessed Carl be so calm and always had a smile, just like Rene, when they would be teaching one of our very rowdy preschoolers. Only he (they) could get him to obey and follow instructions. All because he cared and loved him enough to help him. It wasn’t about gymnastics anymore. That touched me and I knew then he and Rene were very compassionate Christians. I looked forward to their smiles when they came to our class. 
I’m so very sorry for his passing. There’s never a good age, but he was just too young to go. I’m so sorry, Rene… 

I just can’t believe it. He still looked the same as he did 30 years ago when you guys coached me. I have many memories of Carl and your family. I’m so sorry for all you have had to endure in the past year. You are in my thoughts and prayers every single day. 

So very sorry to hear of Carl’s passing. He was such a kind man. I have many fond memories of him and Rene teaching my son gymnastics many years ago. I know he’s reunited with Blake and that’s a comforting thought for sure but also leaving behind his loving wife who will miss him so much. Praying for you Rene. Praying for comfort and peace for you. Love on those grand babies. Lean on one another. Much love to you my sweet friend. ❤️🙏🏻❤️

He was my daughter’s gymnastics teacher. She had the best time learning from him. Prayers for the family. 

Life is so fragile.  Our friend Carl passed so much sooner than any of us could imagine.  He left the fingerprints of Christ on so many lives. I know he is in his glory now and wouldn’t want to call him back. The best way for us to honor him is to lift Rene and their family in prayer, make ourselves available to them in practical ways, and to leave Christ’s fingerprints on all we touch in our brief remaining time here on earth. 


Rene, 

My heart goes out to you and your family.  I know this has been such a hard couple of years.  I will continue to pray for you. 
Love, Terri  Shumer Caylor  

OBITUARY

Carl Edward Gifford

September 9, 1962 – January 18, 2022

Sherwood Chapel & Memorial Gardens

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