Inez Dorothy Gibson

Inez Dorothy Young Gibson, blessed with a remarkable life spanning 106 years, ascended to her Heavenly Reward on June 6, 2025, from her home in DeSoto, Texas. Her generous soul's journey on this earth touched all who knew her. Accepting the call of her ancestors, she uplifts her family with loving grace and imprints an astonishing legacy on their hearts.

Born as the second child of three on March 26, 1919, in Rockwall, Texas, to the parentage of Emmett L. Young and Ola Brown Young. Inez was married for 59 years to the late T. D. Gibson, Sr. and the mother of four children: Marilyn, T. D. Jr., Michael, and Charmin. T. D. Jr preceded her in death.

Her devotion to family extended beyond her lineage to many facets of her life, especially her spiritual communities. At a young age, Inez confessed a hope in Christ and joined the Cedar Grove Christian Church (DOC) in Rockwall. After relocating to Dallas, she joined Romine Christian Church (DOC) before her decades-long membership at Warren Avenue Christian Church (DOC). During her leadership at Warren Avenue, she served as a Deacon, member of the Orion Women’s Guild, the church’s Outreach Ministry Chair, and with the Disciples Women's Ministries. She was recognized for volunteering with the Texas Christian Missionary Fellowship Disciples Women, District II, and honored as the “Oldest Member” of Warren Avenue Christian Church. As the church volunteer coordinator for local schools, Inez brought joy and tireless energy to the Colonial Early Childhood Learning Center (currently the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Arts Academy)’s Reading Is Fundamental Program, a weekly volunteer in the school clinic followed by mentoring in the D. C. James Learning Center’s H.O.S.T Reading Program (currently the Irma L. Rangel Young Leadership School). Her inspiring efforts were celebrated by the Dallas Public Schools District, illuminating her lifelong dedication to literature and knowledge.

Inez graduated in 1935 as Salutatorian from Burnett High School, Terrell, Texas. Shortly after graduation, she left her family farm in Rockwall and moved to Dallas seeking the promise of a better life. While nurturing her home and raising her family, she earned a humble living as a domestic worker. Eager to serve those in need, Inez embraced an opportunity to attend nursing school, grading at the top of her class as a Licensed Vocational Nurse. Her medical expertise and natural caretaking gifts blossomed into an illustrious 23-year nursing career at Methodist Central Hospital in Dallas. She retired as a Pharmaceutical Nurse, but her caregiving nature continued long after her professional career.

Inez actively engaged in social activities, including attending the Juanita Craft Recreation Center in East Dallas and the Salvation Army Senior Center in Pleasant Grove. She loved participating in senior talent competitions, showcasing her unique ability to recite poetry and prose, specifically tongue-twisters and rhymes. Her articulate expressions allowed her to take first place on several occasions. The Dallas Urban League revered her as part of their tribute and “Salute to Mothers” in the DFW Metropolitan Area.

Phenomenal memories of Inez’s charming personality have rendered a lasting impression. Her calming smile, exuberant laugh, and entertaining wit are legendary. She enjoyed helping others for a worthy cause while expecting nothing in return. She bestowed unconditional love and respect upon her family. She encouraged people to honor her by continuing her practice of living a grateful life fueled by positivity and benevolence. Her patient spirit went by many names: Mrs. Gibson, sister, mother, Big Mama, great-grandmother, and simply… sweetly: Ma Dear.

Ms. Inez Dorothy Gibson leaves a loving family to cherish her memories: two daughters, Marilyn Gibson Calhoun (Michael) of Dallas, TX, and Charmin Gibson Banks of DeSoto, TX; her son, Michael E. Gibson of DeSoto, TX, and daughter-in-law, Ethel Gibson of Terrell, TX. She is also survived by eleven grandchildren: Wendolyn Calhoun Miller, Jon-Michael Calhoun, Derrick Gibson, Terry Gibson, Tamera Paige, Asha Gibson, Michael D. Gibson, Cory Gibson, Vincent Gibson, Rossie Banks III, and Jasmine A. Banks. Added to those left to cherish her memory are twenty great-grandchildren and many adored cousins, church family members, and friends.

“Well done, good and faithful servant…Enter into the joy of your Lord.”

-Matthew 25:21