Gayle Wayne Huddleston

Gayle Wayne Huddleston, 83, passed away on Sunday, October 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on November 7, 1942, in Heidelberg, Mississippi, Gayle graduated from Sandersville High School in 1960. Shortly thereafter, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. During his military service, he served aboard the USS King (DLG-10) and USS Perkins (DD-877), attaining the rank of Fire Control Technician Third Class. He received the Navy Good Conduct Medal and was honorably discharged from the United States Naval Reserve in 1966.

Following his military service, Gayle built a long and successful career in the natural gas industry, retiring from CenterPoint Energy after more than 40 years of dedicated service. His strong work ethic, loyalty, and commitment were evident throughout his professional life.

In June 2026, Gayle and his beloved wife, Betty Jane Huddleston, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. Their six decades together were a testament to enduring love, commitment, and the family they built together. Above all, Gayle took tremendous pride in his family and the memories they created over the years.

Gayle was a man who always had a story to tell, often sharing memories and experiences that brought laughter and conversation to those around him. He enjoyed fishing, but some of his greatest joys came from being involved in the lives of his children and grandchildren. Whether attending their activities, celebrating their accomplishments, or simply spending time together, he took great pride in being a father and grandfather.

His faith was also an important part of his life. Gayle was a devoted member of Park Place Baptist Church, where he was actively involved in church activities and generously gave his time. His commitment to his faith and church family was a reflection of the values he carried throughout his life. His love for his family, his faith, and the relationships he built will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

Gayle was preceded in death by his parents, John and Betty Huddleston; and his sisters, Fannie Foster and Bettie Sue Suddith.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Betty Jane Huddleston; his three children, Laurie Huddleston Smith (David), Jonathan Wayne Huddleston (Susan), and Adam Marshall Huddleston (Amber); nine cherished grandchildren, Kalee Huddleston Talley (Austin), Hannah Dollar (Matthew), Sydney, Mason, Landry, AnaLee Grace, Andee, Lauren, and Landon; his sister, Elaine Crisman (Richard); his nephew, Richard Charles Crisman; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Gayle’s life was marked by service to his country, dedication to his work, a steadfast faith, and an unwavering love for his family. Though he will be deeply missed, the stories he told, the lessons he shared, and the memories he created will continue to live on through the generations of his family.

Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Gayle’s nine beloved grandchildren: Kalee Huddleston Talley, Hannah Dollar, Sydney, Mason, Landry, AnaLee Grace, Andee, Lauren, and Landon; his grandsons-in-law, Austin Talley and Matthew Dollar; and his nephew, Richard Charles Crisman.

Visitation will be held on Thurs. Oct. 15, 2026 from 10am-12pm at Ott & Lee Funeral Home in Brandon, MS. Graveside services are 2:30pm on Thurs. Oct. 15, 2026 at McFarland Presbyterian Cemetery in Heidelburg, MS.

May he rest in eternal peace.