Troy Patrick Gambill

Troy Patrick Gambill, 22, of Frederick, MD passed away on March 17, 2024 in Boone, NC, where he was a business major at Appalachian State University. There he was a member of The Walker Fellows, a select handful of student ambassadors who officially represent The Walker School of Business.

Troy was the second son of Jackie and Jonathan Gambill, who along with their eldest son, Brice, rounded out the family of four. The loss is devastating; it leaves a vast void. But the family is being sustained by God’s grace and the incredible outpouring of love and support from family, friends and the larger community.

Troy is most immediately remembered for his warm and outgoing personality, his broad, ever-present smile and his mop of curly hair. At 6’4” he was hard to miss.

Troy had a quick wit, a great sense of humor, and an easy, infectious laugh. He was thoughtful, gentle and kind. He was welcoming and warm and could talk to anyone. He readily sensed when someone was in need of a little extra attention or a loving embrace. He leaves behind a sister - and brotherhood of close, close friends.

Troy was a 2020 graduate of Governor Thomas Johnson High School. There he flourished, developed a diverse range of friends, and challenged himself in unexpected ways. He enrolled as a cadet in the Naval Junior ROTC. Decked out in his khaki uniform he cut a striking figure, his curls braided and hidden under his cap in order to pass inspection. He threw himself into several sports and with no prior experience lettered in football, track and field, and tennis.

Troy loved all manner of sports, including golf, fishing, hiking, and especially skiing. He enjoyed competing in rec basketball and the camaraderie of playing alongside his neighborhood friends. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steeler fan, possibly in part to aggravate his mother, who grew up in Cleveland.

Troy loved cooking. He and his girlfriend Michelle tackled many new recipes together, including sushi rolls. Troy raved and raved about Michelle’s family’s authentic Mexican cuisine. He was an aficionado of Old Bay seasoning, passionate about pickles and loved everything spicy. 

Troy loved to draw. His cartoons were inventive and detailed. The characters spilled out onto all manner of paper - drawing pads, school notebooks, the backs of envelopes - any shred of paper would do. His storylines and perspectives sparked smiles and laughter.

Troy loved the beach, especially the family’s annual trip to Ocean City. He was a skilled (and lucky) card player, more often than not beating his grandmother at Rummy 500. During family board games he would grin slyly, shake the die furiously and roll them with a flourish - regularly coming from behind to win. 

The phones, inboxes and mailboxes of Troy’s family have been filled with texts, emails and sympathy cards. The outpouring has been amazing. A note from a close family friend crystalizes the theme that runs through them all:

“There are no adequate words for such an unimaginable loss. Troy was a gift to you and to all of us, and we will cherish the many memories that we have of him - memories that will keep him alive in our hearts.” - MS

Nothing can bring back Troy, but please honor his life by always reaching out to anyone you think may somehow be struggling. The signs are not always apparent. A small gesture, a text, phone call, a hug or conversation has the potential to make a huge, life changing impact.

If you yourself are struggling, know that you are loved, that things can and will get better. Ask for help.  Reach out.

www.afsp.org - American Foundation of Suicide Prevention. 

Are you in a crisis? Call or text 988

www.AllianceOfHope.org - Resources for suicide loss survivors.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at All Saints' Episcopal Church, 106 West Church Street, Frederick.  The service was streamed and archived and can be found on the church’s YouTube channel:

Funeral for Troy Patrick Gambill, June 1, 2024, 2 PM (youtube.com)