James Southard Gibson

Jim previously lived and raised his family in his hometown of Belpre, OH and retired in Bradenton, FL.

Jim was a Belpre High School graduate, class of 1967. He was jack of all trades, member of Masonic Lodge #609, member of International Brotherhood of Boilermakers #667, he was a relator, and more. Jim not only served his country proudly in the U.S. Army as a Parachute Rigger, but served others selflessly as well throughout his life. He lived out his faith through his actions, bearing the fruits of his discipleship in Christ. Even in pain at the hospital, he would minister to the nurses and doctors. As part of his discipleship, he wrote a book “Who Says So”, pen named Tyson Val, in hopes to bring others closer to Christ. Jim knew he would see his family again someday because they had all accepted Jesus Christ as their savior.

Jim was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He cherished his wife, Mindy, with whom he shared 54 years of loving marriage. Jim adored his grandchildren. He loved playing with them and would follow their adventures: Madeline’s soccer, Noah’s projects, Elizabeth’s cross country and Samantha’s dances.

He had a special bond with his late best friend, Dave Brown, whom he called everyday to exchange old tales and share new stories.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Mindy Shroyer Gibson; son, James Gibson (Michelle), and daughter, Jennifer Woodruff (Dwayne); grandchildren, Madeline & Noah Woodruff, and Elizabeth & Samantha Gibson; sister, Barbara Holcomb (Don, Jr); brother-in-law, David Tanner; mother-in-law, Vivan Orlando.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded by sister Patricia Gibson Tanner.

Donations in Jim’s honor may be made to Disabled Veterans National Foundation https://www.dvnf.org/ (DVNF), Samaritans Purse https://www.samaritanspurse.org/, and International Fellowship of Christians and Jews https://www.ifcj.org/ (IFCJ).

Per Jim’s wishes, he has been cremated and a gathering for family and friends will be held at a later date to celebrate his life.