A mother of four, a mother to so many more, Gail Webb, 90, passed away peacefully, on March 3, 2025, at her daughter Amanda Blair’s (Keith) home, in Smithville.
Born on Nov. 1, 1934, to Robert and Margaret Hudgens, in Sparta, she was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Norval Finley Webb Jr.; son-in-law, Harry Greek (Annette); brother-in-law, Carl Ballinger (Kay); and cherished loved ones and family members.
After graduating from White County High School, Gail served as a secretary to Tennessee Representative Joe L. Evins at his office in the nation’s capital. Introduced by the congressman, Gail and Norval soon married, in 1954. The Webbs spent the rest of their lives raising their family, in Smithville, where Norval, a third-generation pharmacist, owned and operated F.Z. Webb & Sons Pharmacy.
While being a stay-at-home mom, Gail’s motherly care extended well beyond her long-time home, on South College Street, impacting the lives of so many in the local community and beyond.
For several years, she served as the local Girl Scouts Troop leader. She donated blood at every opportunity to help save lives, totaling more than 13 gallons. Even up until she was 85, Gail was a volunteer with the Smithville Meals on Wheels program, delivering food to those in need in the county.
For nearly two decades, Gail and Norval served as foster parents, opening their home to dozens of children with diverse needs and circumstances. One of those children, Heidi, would eventually become their own. Deaf and blind, Heidi was the cherished daughter they never expected but deeply loved. They raised her with unwavering care and compassion, encouraging her involvement in Girl Scouts and other organizations and later enrolling her in the Tennessee School for the Blind. Though Heidi cannot speak many words, one she could always say was “Momma.”
Gail’s heart also extended well beyond the local community. She had sponsored countless children through World Vision and donated tirelessly to numerous charities.
Always humble, Gail never failed to put others first. Even in her final days, she continued to care for her daughter, Annette, who faced medical challenges of her own. She never sought recognition for her kindness, illustrating that actions speak louder than words. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, the congregation of the First United Methodist Church of Smithville, and all those whose lives were touched by her motherly love over the years.
Gail is survived by her sister, Kay Ballinger; her four children, Amanda Webb Blair (Keith), Annette Greek (Harry), Alan Webb (Lori), Heidi Webb; her grandchildren, Joseph Greek (Erin and their daughter Madeline), Kathryn Blair, Anna Rachel Blair, William Blair, Anderson Webb (Vivian), Martha Hooper (Justin), Emily Newell (Jared), Thomas Webb; and several great-grandchildren.
The family would like to thank her special caregiver, Jimmie Kirby; Dr. Steven Cooper and his staff; and Adoration Home Health for the care and services they provided.
A memorial service was March 8, 2025, at First United Methodist Church of Smithville, with burial in Town Cemetery.
Memorial donations can be made to First United Methodist Church of Smithville.
Love-Cantrell Funeral Home, in Smithville, was in charge of arrangements.
