On December 29, 946 in Huntsville, Texas Leslie C. Gambrell and Irma J. Collins-Smith welcomed their first “Diva” whom they named Olivia Estelle Gambrell. Olivia attended school in Huntsville, Texas as well as Oakland California- Dewey Academy. Also, receiving her associate degree in medical Billing and Coding. She retired from Park Plaza Hospital.
Olivia will always be remembered by her classy, sassy Ms. Diva attitude, from her head to her feet “The Diva” seems to never miss the assignment. On February 28, 2023, Olivia departed this life and moved to her heavenly home. Her new home is filled with peace, joy, happiness and a reunion with her loved ones.
Proceeding her in death are her parents; stepfather: Melvin Smith; husband: Muriel Peter Forrest; sisters: Dorothy Fenner, Bertha Wallace, Alva Gamble; niece: Felecia Gamble; nephews: Kevin Welch, Jamarcus and Jerome Gamble. She is survived by her children: Jerrol Barnes, Patrick “PT” Taylor Jr., Dr. Tashunda Joiner, and La’Toria “Tuli” Forrest; all of Houston, Texas; grandchildren: Jerroll “BJ” Barnes Jr., Charles Cooper, Vanity Tyler, Jeremy Gamble, Elijah and Khaliyah Oliviyah Muhammad, Criseanna“Crissy” Jones, Shawn Jr. and Shannyn Joiner; great grandchildren: Autumn Williams, Queenie Williams (puppy), Keshawn Barnes, Aaron, Cortlon, Aaliyah and Taliyah Cooper; sister: Barbara Hearn, Rodonna Franks, and Annette Russel; brother: Rev. Melvin Gamble and William Gamble; aunt: Alma Faye Ball; special friend: Mr. Billy Brown and best friend: Gustavia “Gussie” Stevens and a host of family and friends. Also, The Church at Bethel’s Family under Pastor August where she served in The Greeters Ministry.