SALT LAKE CITY — Allyson Gamble, responsible for everything from presidential visits and weddings to protests and parties at Utah's State Capitol Complex, has died.
Governor-elect Spencer Cox eulogized her in a post on Twitter on Saturday morning.
Last night we lost one of Utah’s best. Our dear Allyson Gamble passed from a stroke. As Exec Dir of the @UTStateCapitol she will forever be part of this magnificent building. She was brave and fierce and kind. Our hearts are broken and we will miss her.https://t.co/DlJkP1zwUS
— Spencer Cox (@SpencerJCox) December 5, 2020
Gamble was the executive director of the Capitol Preservation Board, which oversees the grounds of The People's House. The CPB does everything from organizing grand galas and weddings to facilitating protests and solving parking problems around the buildings that make up the Capitol complex.
"This is a sad day for Utah, and all those who knew and loved Allyson. She was beloved by everyone! Our state Capitol is a magnificent building made all the more beautiful and welcoming to the public because of her dedication and professionalism in managing this tremendous asset," Governor Gary Herbert said in a statement. "She had a special love for the people’s house - and everyone who worked in it. She was enthusiastic, warmhearted, and kind, and the Capitol building will be a little less bright in her absence. Jeanette and I extend our condolences to her family at this difficult and tender time and ask for God’s blessings to buoy them up!"
Once a year, lobbyists would line up outside CPB offices to book time to host a luncheon for lawmakers somewhere on the Capitol grounds. Always cheerful, Gamble and her staff would try to accommodate everyone, then facilitate field trips, protests and ceremonies (sometimes all at the same time).
Gamble was an advocate for organ donation, having been the recipient of two heart transplants. She was mentioned by name in Governor Gary Herbert's 2013 State of the State address (an event she helped organize every year).
Tributes came in from people across the political spectrum, as well as those who worked on the Capitol grounds every day.
Our hearts are broken with the news that we have lost our dear friend and champion, Utah State Capitol Executive Director Allyson Gamble. She has been an incredible leader, a constant example to all who knew her, and just an amazing person. Our hearts are forever with you!!!
— Michael Rapich (@ColonelRapich) December 5, 2020
"I’m heartbroken. Allyson was not only a colleague but a dear friend to me and many of us. Words can’t express Allyson’s dedication to her job and the Capitol," Senate President J. Stuart Adams, R-Layton, said in a statement Saturday. "She carefully regarded the Capitol and navigated the needs of the three branches, media, public and visitors. It is a tragic loss for all of us. We send our thoughts, prayers and love to Allyson’s family."
I am deeply saddened to hear of the passage of Allyson Gamble.
— Speaker Brad Wilson (@BradWilsonGOP) December 5, 2020
Allyson served as Director of the Capitol Preservation Board for over a decade, overseeing all operations pertaining to the State Capitol Complex. (1/3)
Updates on FOX 13 and fox13now.com as information becomes available.
