Harold Charles “Gibby” Gibson

Harold Charles “Gibby” Gibson, 85, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, at the Villas of Holly Brook in Shelbyville on Friday, November 6, 2026, at 1:52am.

Harold was born on April 5, 1941 to Harold “Hoot” Gibson and Betty Horsthemke Gibson.

Harold was a 1959 graduate of Pana High School. Throughout his working years, he was employed at the Pana A&P Grocery Store, worked as an Archway Cookie vendor for 14 years, and spent 25 years working at Walmart in Effingham.

He was a proud member of Pana Elks Lodge #1261, Pana Moose Lodge #1015, and United in Faith Church. Harold was also known as the world’s biggest Chicago Bears and Atlanta Braves fan, and he proudly cheered on his teams through the good times and the bad.

Harold is survived by his two sons, Brian Gibson and wife Lori, and Kevin Gibson and wife Ellen.

He leaves behind nine grandchildren: Valerie Gibson, Jennifer Delaneuville, Kendall Gibson, Joe Metzger, Brad Metzger, Emmalee Gibson, Kayla Gibson, Chuck Wintermeyer, and Brittany Wintermeyer, along with 17 great-grandchildren and grand dogs Winnie and SJ, whom he called “his babies” and who all brought him much joy

He is also survived by his brother, Rich Gibson, and his sister, Luann Patton.

Harold was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Helen; his brothers, Wally Gibson and Bill “Wimp” Dionne; and his parents, Harold “Hoot” Gibson and Betty Horsthemke Gibson, grandson Kurtis Charles Gibson and his beloved dog Shelby Lynn.

Harold had a strong work ethic, and loved his communities, Pana and Effingham. He was a member of many bowling leagues. He touched many lives throughout his 85 years and leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will be cherished by those who knew and loved him.

Harold’s greatest legacy will not be measured by the years he lived or the jobs he held, but by the family he loved, the friendships he made, and the memories he leaves behind. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, November 14th at United In Faith Church, Pana, Illinois with Pastor Leon Goff presiding. Visitation will be at 10:00am followed by the service at 11:00. Memorials may be made to United in Faith church.