Bill related that from the age of four he knew that he wanted to be a church organist and choir director.
War intervened. Bill Gable entered service in the Army Air Corps in 1942. He served in campaigns in India and China, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant, and was awarded four medals, including the Bronze Star.
While still in the Reserves, Bill met his wife of 68 years in 1949, Virginia Wott, while both were students at Westminster Choir College. Two sons were born to Bill and Ginny, Gordon in 1951 and Richard in 1953. Bill received his Masters’ Degree in Religious Music, but was called to return to active duty for service during the Korean War.
Upon separation from the Air Force, Bill achieved his dream by becoming Minister of Music for Central Baptist Church in Hartford, Connecticut, a post he held for 22 years. In 1974, Bill and Ginny moved to Nashville, Tennessee where they served at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.
A man of generous nature, Bill was an active member of the American Guild of Organists and a 50 plus year Mason. He was active in every aspect of Masonry, including serving as a Past Master. He was also a 33rd Degree Scottish Rite Mason and was the Grand Organist for many years. He was a member of the Shrine as well as A Knight Templar. Bill was also active in several chapters of the Eastern Star. He and Ginny also enjoyed traveling on adventures to Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Bill leaves to cherish his memory his sister, two sons, two granddaughters, six grandsons, and seven great-grandchildren. His spirit will live on in the kindness and humor that was shown to all of us.
The viewing will be 6:00 PM, Thursday, November 7th, 2019, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 525 Sneed Road, Nashville, Tennessee; memorial service to follow at 7:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Shriners Hospitals for Children at https://www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/shc/donate in honor of Bill Gable.
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