Was born July 20, 1943, in Alabama and passed away April 8, 2026, at the age of 82. Gerald was a devoted and well-known presence to many, remembered with deep respect for the life he lived and the people he valued. After this introduction, “Squirrely,” will be remembered as a steady, dedicated, and respected man whose influence reached far beyond his immediate circle. He lived in Cullman, Alabama.
“Squirrely,” was preceded in death by his mother, Lawasel Rivers Campbell, and his father, General Washington Campbell. He was also preceded in death by a special and loved companion, “Rastus.” He survive by his beloved wife of 63 years, Kathy Campbell; his son, Ross Campbell (Teresa); and his nieces, Cindy Cone (Mike) and Tanina Baker. and two Granddaughters Kayleigh and Carrieanne Drake
Squirrely,” was born in the wheat community in the Crane Hill area of Ardale and Trade, Alabama. He graduated in 1961 from Cold Springs High School, where he played basketball for Walker Junior College. He served in the National Guard for two years at Fort Polk, LA. In 1972, he started Campbell Stables, a racking horse training and breeding facility, and during that time he also sold Liberty National Life Insurance. He became a well-known broodmare and colt producer throughout the Racking and Walking horse industries, and one particular horse, Shades on Fire, helped put the Campbell name on the map.
In the last several years of his life, “Squirrely,” continued raising colts, breeding mares, and offering advice to the staff of Campbell Stables. He never met a stranger and enjoyed talking to people no matter where he went. He served on many boards of directors of various associations and was president of many of them. He was honored as Member of the Year in the Racking Horse Hall of Fame in 2018. He would want to thank every trainer, assistant, groom, and staff member who ever worked at the barn—he loved and appreciated everyone.
Visitation will be held at Moss-Service Funeral Home, 1901 2nd Ave Northwest, Cullman, AL, on April 13, 2026, from 12 p.m. until 2 p.m. A Celebration of Life Funeral Service will follow at Moss-Service Funeral Home on April 13, 2026, beginning at 2 p.m. A Graveside Committal Service will take place at Cullman City Cemetery, 9th St SW, Cullman, AL, on April 13, 2026.
The family would like to thank the staff of Cullman Regional Hospice for their care in his final days. Squirrely,” will be deeply missed, but his memory and legacy will live on in the lives he touched over the years.
