Gayle Jeanette Carver

Gayle Jeanette (Callis, Haltom) Carver was born in Nashville, Tennessee on December 20, 1940. She was the 2nd child, and only daughter of Ruth & George H. Callis, Jr. She was preceded in death by her mother, Ruth Jenkins Callis, her father, George Hatcher Callis, Jr., Her brother, George Hatcher Callis Ill. Also, preceded in death by her husband and father to her three children, David Rhea Haltom, Sr., and husband, Donald C. Carver.

Gayle grew up in Madison, Tennessee. She graduated from Madison High School in 1959. While in high school, she participated in several clubs. She and her brother, George (Sonny) danced together in many talent shows. She loved to sing and had learned to play piano. Shortly after high school, she met the love of her life, and father to their three children, David Rhea Haltom, Sr. After a short romance, they were married at First Church of the Nazarene where they attended and chose to raise their family. Her sweet spirit, gracefulness, and classy professionalism made her the perfect candidate for a career in administration.  She worked as a receptionist at the family business, Jones Lumber Company, and Jones Homes for many years. After her husband, David went on to be with the Lord, she worked as an administrative assistant at Trevecca Nazarene University, from where she retired. Prior working at Trevecca, Gayle met another love in Don Carver. Together, they traveled, visited family, and had many adventures together until his passing a few years ago. Gayle loved her family. She loved her friends.  Gayle's warm personality and easy smile insured that she would always be welcomed in the room. Aside from the love of her family, she had the best friends at Ruby's Restaurant on Dickerson Road, and her Thursday morning crew at Panera Bread at Rivergate. Both staff and friends were always happy that she was there. Although all the attributes to Gayle are wonderful and a perfect description of who she was, she would be the first to tell you that all the good in her was because of her relationship with Christ. Although a Christian most all her life, a near fatal fall changed how she saw life. She understood that eternity was forever, and she lived life with that knowledge for the rest of her days. Gayle remained a member of First Church of the Nazarene; however, she began attending Bethel Church of the Nazarene near her Madison home. There she met new friends, and again was welcomed with open arms. Gayle had a creative streak, a servant's heart, and loving nature. She was up for a good road trip on many days. Don't let that sweet nature fool you. Gayle could also be a conspirator in a good prank. She lived and loved well. She was welcomed into Jesus' loving arms surrounded by a loving family on Saturday, July 20, 2024. She will be missed tremendously.

Gayle is survived by her brother, Capt. Lloyd B. Callis, Navy Ret. (Betty), children, Connie Houston (Alan), David Haltom (Rebecca), Patricia Weaver (Dennis), Thirteen grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that a donation to Trevecca Nazarene University be made in Gayle's honor for students in Religion or Music.