Gervis Wilton Kaler, age 74, of Mayfield, Kentucky, passed away on September 30, 2026, at Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, Tennessee.

Gervis was preceded in death by his parents, Garland and Malinda Sue Kaler.

He is survived by his cousins, Gayla Kaler, Denise Hamlet, Judy Hamlet of Mayfield, Kentucky, Jackie (Marie) Hamlet of Portland, Tennessee, David (Diana) Hamlet of Stuttgart, Germany, and Michael Kaler of St. Louis, Missouri. He is also survived by the younger generations of his family who lovingly knew him as Uncle Gervis. 

Gervis earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics from Murray State University in 1981. He went on to have a long career in quality engineering and management, working for General Tire & Rubber Company, Goshen Rubber Company, Schlegel Oklahoma, G.F. Office Furniture, and The Troxel Company. His career took him to different places throughout the country before he eventually retired and made his home in Rogersville, Tn. But a list of schools, jobs, and places could never fully tell the story of Gervis.

Gervis never married and did not have children of his own, but that never kept him from having a very special place in the lives of the younger generations of his family. His second and third cousins affectionately called him “Uncle Gervis,” and he embraced them as his own nieces and nephews. To them, “Uncle” wasn’t simply a nickname—it reflected the place he held in their lives and the love they shared.

Family was important to Gervis, and he was tremendously loved by all of his family. The memories he leaves behind are found in so many ordinary but precious moments—his big smile, the sound of his laughter, holidays together, a country meal shared around the table, his love for his cats, and simply having Uncle Gervis there.

Graveside services will be held at Trace Creek Cemetery and officiated by Bro. Ronnie Stinson on November 1, 2026 at 2:30 pm. No visitation is scheduled. Family and friends are asked to meet at the cemetery. Interment will follow.

Gervis lived life on his own terms and found joy in the people, animals, traditions, and simple pleasures he loved most. His family will miss his big smile and laughter more than words can say. And when Christmas comes, when It’s a Wonderful Life is playing, when family gathers around a table for a good country meal, or when a beloved cat curls up nearby, there will undoubtedly be thoughts of Uncle Gervis. He was deeply loved, and he will remain forever in the hearts of his family.