Richard D. Gibson

Richard (Dick) D. Gibson, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, went to his eternal home in heaven with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ September 13, 2011. He passed in the hospital following a short illness. He was 81 years old.

Born in Tuttle, North Dakota on July 16, 1931, Richard spent 36 years of his life working as a supervisor for General Motors Corp. in Kokomo, Indiana. He married Margaret B. Gibson and the couple celebrated 63 blissful years of marriage this past August 21. After raising their four children, Richard and his wife moved to Florida where they enjoyed 25 years of retirement, then moved to The Woodlands in 2009 to be closer to family.

A perpetual jokester, Richard was instantly adored by anyone who met him. Whether he was chatting up neighbors at the mailbox, walking the dog or deep-sea fishing, he always wore a warm smile and lent a listening ear.

Family was Richard’s first love. He was devoted to his wife whom he often took on adventures in the couple’s motor home. He also loved playing card games with his children and grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Papaw.” Richard so enjoyed being an integral part of their lives and watching them grow up.

Although Richard was an avid Orlando Magic basketball fan, he had recently become quite a Houston Rockets fan as well. His laugh and sharp wit will be sorely missed and treasured in the hearts of his family members forever.

Richard’s family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to all his precious neighbors, church family, and brothers and sisters in Christ who offered loving prayers to Our Lord and Savior on behalf of Richard. God bless all those who touched his life in special and wonderful ways.

Richard was preceded in death by his mother Mabel Scheidt, brother Robert Gibson and daughter Margaret Ann Esterly. He is survived by his spouse, Margaret B. Gibson, his daughter, Gina K. (Dana), Growden The Woodlands, Texas, sons Richard E. Gibson of St. Petersburg, Fla. and James Michael Gibson (Carolyn) of Kokomo, IN, eleven grandchildren, Jonathan Gibson, Heath (Amber) Gibson, Erik Graham, Caleb Graham, Kristen (Donnie) Clark, Cory (Crystal) Gibson, Zack Gibson, Kharissa Stevens, Brad Growden, Paula Growden and Connie Growden; three sisters, Patty Roberts, Betty (Cleo) Shively, Linda Gibson; and one brother, Jack Gibson. He is further survived by his grandchildren, nieces, nephews, countless friends, and his beloved dog “Angel.”

Services will be held at 1:00PM Monday, September 19 at the Fellowship Church chapel in The Woodlands One Fellowship Drive. Visitation 1:00-2:00PM. Memorial Service 2:00-3:00PM. Graveside Service 3:00-4:00PM. Reception 4:00-5:00PM (all are invited to attend) in the “Ride” located on the 2nd floor/main building on the Fellowship campus.