Caleb Eugene Gaston

Caleb Eugene Gaston, of Knoxville, TN, passed away May 27, 2020 following an extended illness. Born February 26, 1981, he was instantly loving, caring, and protective.  These traits he would carry throughout his life.  A graduate of Central High School, Class of 1999, Caleb was a stellar athlete setting long standing records only to have one broken by his son Braden.  He could not have been prouder! Caleb worked as a Sales Manager at Kimball’s Jewelers.  

Caleb’s most valued treasure was his family.  Beginning with the love of his life Jennifer whom the two had been together since middle school.  He would jokingly say Jennifer followed him around everywhere but once he had set eyes on her; he would never love another.  They married and raised three sons who are navigating through adulthood with the lessons taught by their father.  Caleb has another son Bryson who is an extremely talented artist and a daughter Maleah.  

Being a family man to his core, Caleb loved his brother David.  He always pushed him to reach his highest potential on and off the field. “I am my brother’s keeper” was something they shared with each other daily.  Caleb spread his love around with his other siblings in the same way.  He always gave words of wisdom and good advice to anyone that needed a little reassurance or guidance.  He was genuine, kind, and proud.  Caleb was his mother’s first real love of her life.  She would dote on the husband, the father, the brother, an all-around great man of God he had become.  

There was never a day Caleb would not make some wise crack or joke just to bring someone a smile. “Chad-smile” He lived and loved life to the fullest! Caleb was present and actively involved at his kids’ football games, track meets and other special events.  One of the things he loved most was getting on the open road on his motorcycle. 

Caleb had never met a stranger and to have met him was a favor from God! He will be sorely missed and fondly remembered for being a great person … just CALEB! 

Preceded in death by his grandfather, James L. Layne, Sr., and brother, Jamaral Gaston.

Survived by his devoted wife, Jennifer Gaston; children, Caleb, Bryson, Jaylen, Maleah and Braden; mother, Felicia (Andre) Blake; dad, Victor (Darla) Smith, Jr.; brothers, David (Sarrah) Gaston, Victor (JaMia) Smith III, Antonio (Ashley) Minor, Chad Jackson; sisters, Daleshia Smith and Chonda Smith; grandmother, Floraine Layne; a host of aunts, uncles, nieces,  nephews and cousins.

Sunday, June 7, 2020, a drive -by memorial will take place at Central High School, 5321 Jacksboro Pike, Knoxville, TN 37918, beginning at 10:00 a.m.  During this time, we will remain in compliance with the Governor's Executive Order #17 (COVID-19) In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.  The website is www.ETCH.com and click on “In Memory of Caleb Gaston.”  There will be an ETCH donation basket on site during the drive-by memorial as well.  Professional services provided by Patton Funeral Home 1-800-824-8283 or www.pattonfuneralhome1962.com

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