Donna Lorraine Gibson

A truly gentle soul, Donna exemplified a life of loving kindness and compassion. "Bless your heart" was a favorite phrase, reflecting her positive outlook, care for others and inner faith.

Born in Palermo, ND, March 26, 1930, she subsequently lived in Montana and Idaho before settling in Spokane. Donna graduated from Priest River High School and Seattle Pacific College (now University). A gifted educator, her long teaching career included five years in Latah, WA and 25 years in Spokane before retiring in 1981. She was among the favorite teachers of two generations of first graders.

An accomplished musician, she played piano and organ and for many years was the organist at First Free Methodist Church in Spokane, where she also served as treasurer and taught Sunday School. With her husband Floyd -- known as Gib -- Donna was active in Gideons International and a member of Spokane and statewide education associations.

Although she was soft-spoken, she had a sharp sense of humor, was quick to laugh and embraced life. While dating Gib, a widower, she sometimes arrived on her motorcycle. They married in 1971. Together they traveled the Pacific Northwest while actively serving their community.

Donna is survived by sister-in-law Roxie Andersen, Kooskia, ID; sister Marilyn Chleborad (Dick) of Louisville, KY; stepson Richard (Mary Susan), Des Moines, IA; stepdaughter Barbara Hardy (Ron), Twin Falls, ID; grandchildren Matt Allen (Claire), Amanda Moore (Don), Joe Allen and Katie Gibson Overby (Walter); as well as seven great-grandchildren; nephews Jack Andersen and Grant Chleborad and niece Lora Lee Wicks (Rob). She was pre deceased by husband Floyd; brother Loren Andersen; parents Lester Andersen and Zona Stone; step-parents Mary Andersen and Barney Stone; and grandson Joshua Gibson, MD.

Visitation will be held Friday, September 21, 2018, from 1-5 p.m. at Ball & Dodd Funeral Home, 5100 W Wellesley, Spokane, WA, with a service Saturday, September 22, 2018, at 10 a.m. at First Free Methodist Church, 1725 W Courtland, Spokane, WA. Burial at West Bonner Cemetery, Priest River, ID will follow.

Memorials may be made to First Free Methodist Church or Gideons International.