Gerald Price Baber

Gerald Price Baber, 88, of Piney Flats, passed away Tuesday, July 2, 2024. An only child and confirmed bachelor, Gerald leaves behind many friends, all of whom will miss him dearly. He was born July 26, 1935, in Richmond, VA and ultimately relocated to Piney Flats in 1982 where he would spend the remainder of his life. Gerald graduated from Virginia Tech in 1959 with his degree in industrial engineering. He proudly served his country in the United States Army both active duty and in the reserves. Notably, he owned and operated two very successful businesses and was well known for developing the AA-12 machine gun. He enjoyed several impressive hobbies. Since 1958, he operated ham radio using the call sign “W4VZF”. He obtained his private pilot’s license in 1980 and flew his plane, “Tweetie” for many years. He was also an avid animal lover. Anyone who was lucky enough to befriend him would agree that he was an extremely kindhearted and generous man. 

 Graveside services will be conducted on Monday, July 8, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home and Memorial Park, Blountville, with Pastor Ryan Shaffer officiating. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery by 9:45 a.m.