Cal Gill, Sr.

Cal “Lester” Lavon Gill Sr. February 25, 1959 – November 2, 2025

Cal “Lester” Lavon Gill Sr., age 66, of Knoxville, Tennessee, peacefully passed away on November 2, 2025. Born in Mobile, Alabama, on February 25, 1959, Cal was a beloved son, father, brother, and friend whose warmth, humor, and faith touched all who knew him. A proud graduate of Austin-East High School, he was a star quarterback admired for his leadership and determination. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science from Johnson C. Smith University, reflecting his drive and commitment to excellence. Cal dedicated 40 years to the Knoxville Post Office, where his hard work and friendly spirit left a lasting impression on coworkers and customers alike. He enjoyed football, golf, coaching young athletes, spirited political discussions, and cherished time with family and friends. He was married to Terri Denise Owens-Gill for ten years, and their union was blessed with three children. Later, he shared six years of marriage with Sharon Hardin Gill, whose love and support remained an important part of his life.

Cal was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and John Gill; sister, Doris Davis; and brother, John Gill Jr. He leaves to cherish his memory: children Cal L. Gill Jr. of Knoxville, TN; Jessica (Alexander) Hartman of Pensacola, FL; and Petty Officer Xavier D. Gill of Norfolk, VA; siblings Vera Gill-Harvey, Johnnie (Tommy) Marvin, Joyce (Willie) Howard, Karen (Chris) Thompson, all of Knoxville, TN, and Mark Gill of Bristow, VA. His cherished nieces and nephews include Dwight Davis, Donald Davis (California), Cory Thompson (Washington, D.C.), John Morgan (Knoxville, TN), Ashford (Victoria) Hughes, Mario (Canita) Hughes (Huntsville, TN), Erica (Clarence) Henderson, Cynthia Mitchell (Seattle, WA), Joy Parks (Knoxville, TN), and many other dear family and friends. Special thanks to the Austin-East Class of 1977, Sharon Hardin, Katoya Burgins, and Dwayne Thompson for their love and support.

The family will receive friends on Monday, November 10, 2025 from 11-12:00 p.m. with A Celebration of Life Service to follow at 12:00 Noon at Tabernacle Baptist Church, Knoxville, TN, with Rev. Vincent Jones officiating.

Mr. Gill will be laid to rest at the New Grey Cemetery immediately following the service. A dove release will conclude in his honor. Cal “Lester” Lavon Gill Sr. will be remembered for his laughter, integrity, and deep love for family — a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and left a lasting legacy of faith and compassion.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Unity Mortuary. www.unitymortuary1979.com