Oscarine Gibson

Lovingly known as “Tootsie,” her nickname was given many years ago by a woman who joked that it might keep her from talking—because of how long it took her to chew a Tootsie Roll. True to form, her lively spirit made the name unforgettable.

Tootsie was cherished for her honesty, humor, and steadfast, dignified presence. She grew up in a loving, close-knit family and went on to build a long and dedicated career. She served as a bookkeeper and manager at White Oak Pottery Barn for 14 years, worked as a bookkeeper for the Lakewood Housing Authority for 2 years, and later retired from the Garden State Parkway after 11 years of service. In every role, she carried herself with pride, professionalism, and grace.

Faith and Community

Oscarine and her family were raised under the spiritual guidance of Rev. Albert Clayton of Macedonia Baptist Church. As she grew older, she attended several different churches before finding her church home at Kingdom Alliance Church. Though her body weakened with time, her spirit remained steadfast and strong in her faith. Oscarine was—and will always be—honored as a beloved member and mother of Kingdom Alliance Church.

Family and Legacy

Tootsie married the love of her life, Levy Gibson Jr. (1926–2008). They raised two sons:

• Donald L. Gibson (1957–1998)

• Kenneth W. Gibson Sr. (1959–2010)

She is survived by her beloved grandchildren: Kenneth W. Gibson Jr., Jeremy R. Gibson, Lenore Gibson Pettiford, Danielle Oliver, and Yolanda Oliver; and ten great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her great-grandson Karter Levy “KG” Gibson, whom she deeply loved.

Tootsie was the last surviving sibling of the Nickens family, preceded in death by brothers Nathaniel, Cecil, Donald, Philmore, Bobby, and sister Helen Lee. She was also “Aunt Tootsie” to the Steady Six —children raised by her loving mother, Viola Scott and held close ties to the extended Gibson family.

Her Personality and Passions

Tootsie was witty, fashionable, outspoken, and loving. Her home was once the hub of pool parties, card games, and family laughter. She enjoyed casinos, lottery numbers, staying informed on family news, and — in true Tootsie fashion — sharing her truth with humor and boldness. With time, her fierce independence softened into a tender appreciation for family visits and calls.

Her Strength and Spirit

Tootsie faced life’s joys and sorrows with faith, grace, and resilience. She was a storyteller, a truth-teller, and the glue of generations. Her love, humor, and wisdom will continue to guide those she leaves behind.

Acknowledgments - A Grateful Farewell

The family of Oscarine wishes to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all who have shown love, support, and kindness during this time. Special thanks to Pastors Willie Swift, Dr. Edward Harper, Pastor Brian Major and The entire Kingdom Alliance church family, Mrs. Vivian White, Frank Palino and the staff at Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home, as well as Lenore, Kenny, Jeremy, Danielle, Linda Grace, Gail Pomers, Rahsean Daniels, Lillian Johnson, Deena Terrell and Robin Bobbit for collectively pulling all of this together.

Forever in My Heart Reflection by Granddaughter Danielle Oliver Though I cannot be there in person, my heart and prayers are with my family as we honor my grandmother’s life. The time we shared was a gift from Allah — filled with laughter, warmth, and the love that shaped who I am today. Every moment with her brought comfort and joy, and I am grateful for the guidance and strength she gave me. Her memory lives within me, a light that continues to shine even in her passing. May she rest in eternal peace and mercy, and may her spirit be surrounded by love always. “Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed, to Him we shall return.” — Qur’an 2:156

Forever in Our Hearts

Oscarine lived a life full of laughter, love, faith, and family. She may no longer be with us in body, but her voice, her lessons, and her light will continue to echo in the lives of everyone who knew her.

“Her life was her blessing, her memory a treasure, she is loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.”