J.W. Gibson

J.W. Gibson, age 79, of Kingston, died Wednesday, Dec. 05, at his home.

He was born July 29, 1933, in Knoxville, the son of Stuart and Lucy Wright Gibson.

Mr. Gibson was a member of the Church of God of the Union Assembly in Knoxville. He was a well-known builder in the area and built much of Oak Ridge, including various sub-divisions, commercial shopping centers, the Country Club Estates and Jackson Plaza, of which he was most proud.

Mr. Gibson enjoyed growing vegetables and shared his bounty with the Love Kitchen and the FISH Foundation, both in Knoxville. He was always ready to help wherever there was a need.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by son, David H. Gibson, and sister, Betty Whaley.

He is survived by his wife, Edna Raby Gibson, with whom he would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Dec. 14. He is also survived by daughters, Nora Madge Anders and husband Derrick, and Mary Bell and husband Mike; daughter-in-law, Margie Gibson of Palm Desert, Calif.; grandchildren, Rhonda Roberts and husband Dwight, Jonathon Tate Harris, Natalie Garrison, Michael Bell, Shanna Painter and husband Lance, Eric Bell; 13 great-grandchildren, whom he loved dearly; brothers, Jimmy R. Gibson and wife Patricia, and Melvon Gibson and wife Mary; sisters, Margaret and J.C. Donahue, and Jerelene Perryman; special aunt, Irene Meadows; brothers-in-law, Wayman Whaley, and William L. Raby and wife Faye; sister-in-law, Betty Jane Heath and husband Bob; and a host of nieces and nephews.

The family received friends Thursday, Dec. 6, from 4–8 p.m. at their Oak Ridge home, located at 106 Southwood Lane.

A graveside service was held on Friday at 10 a.m. at Oak Ridge Memorial Park with Pastor David Simmons officiating.

The family asks that any memorials be made to the American Cancer Society, The American Diabetes Foundation, or the Kidney Foundation.

Weatherford Mortuary is in charge of the arrangements. An online guest book can be signed at www.weatherfordmortuary.com.