HARRISONBURG–Dr. Emerson (Skip) Cornett Gambill Jr., 64, retired dentist, of Harrisonburg, Va., passed away Dec. 25, 2011. He was born Jan. 24, 1947, in Richmond, VA.
Dr. Gambill was the third generation in his family to practice dentistry in Harrisonburg, following in the footsteps of his father and his grandfather with their joint service to the community lasting nearly 100 years. He was predeceased by his parents, Dr. Emerson C. Gambill and Elizabeth Bailey Gambill, both of Harrisonburg, VA. Among his survivors include his beloved aunt, Nancy Bailey Cogsdale and her husband Thomas of Franklin, VA. He is also survived by his brother, Travis Gambill of Harrisonburg; his sister, Lin Gambill Rasmussen, and her two sons, Drury Alexander Rasmussen and his wife, Lea Schon Rasmussen, and Marc Emereson Rasmussen, all of Richmond, VA. His extended family included his much beloved aunts, uncles and cousins, and his many friends, which included his patients. Special thanks to his cousin, Andy Gambill, and family for their open home and hearts during his surgery and convalescence, and his friends, Vic Saunders, Joe Yoder, Bob Whitcomb, and other too numerous to mention.
Dr. Gambill was a magna cum laude graduate of Bridgewater College and member of the Alpha Chi National Honor Society; and graduate of the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry. He was honorably discharged from the Army after service during the Vietnam War and received the Army commendation medal of service. During his life, his wide range of interest included being a pilot, skiing, skydiving, photography, small and large game hunting, foreign and domestic travel and always learning about people.
As his illness progressed, he was most grateful for the kindnesses offered to him whether small errands or large endeavors. His family wishes to thank those dear friends whose efforts during his illness made his life more manageable in all ways.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the American Cancer Society.
A service of remembrance and time of fellowship will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be sent to www.lindseyharrisonburg.com
Wright Funeral Home provided obituary information.