Leslie M. Gibson Jr.

Dateline: Alton Leslie M. “Gibby” Gibson Jr., 87, died at 9:38 a.m. Sunday, May 28, 2017 at his home in Alton after a brief illness. Born May 22, 1930 in Alton, he was the only son of Leslie Gibson Sr. and Mary (Beck) Gibson. Gibby graduated from Alton High School in 1948 and was very active in sports. During his childhood Gibby enjoyed hunting and fishing with his father on Calhoun Point. They also participated in archaeological efforts resulting in an arrowhead collection which now resides in Tulsa, OK at the Gilcrease Museum containing the “Gibson Point” arrowhead. There is also “Gibson Mound” located in Kampsville, IL which was named after Gibby and his father. During his lifetime, Gibby was always involved in sports. He was a Boy Scout Leader, he managed and coached a Little League team and participated in fast-pitch softball and baseball. He enjoyed bowling and watching his favorite baseball, football and basketball teams with his wife, Betty. Until recently he headed out three mornings a week to work out at his favorite local fitness center to stay strong and active. Gibby married Betty Townsley on May 27, 1950 at 12th Street Presbyterian Church in Alton. Their 67-year marriage was blessed with three children; daughter, Penny Sue, and sons, Leslie and Steven. Gibby and Betty enjoyed vacations, traveling to many foreign countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden and especially, Tahiti, among other. Gibby worked for 42 years as a Toolmaker and Machinist at Hutchinson Foundry in Alton. Gibby will be greatly missed by his family, all his many friends and everyone who knew and loved him. Along with his wife he is survived by his son Steve Gibson (Liz) of Alton, 10 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and one sister, Mae Mottaz. He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Penny Sue Fay, a son, Leslie M. Gibson, and two sisters, Lillian Heyen and Mary Eleanor Wolfe. Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, June 1, 2017 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton where funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. Friday, June 2, 2017. Reverend Adrian Das will officiate. Burial will be at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

Tributes

Leslie M. Gibson Jr.

May 22, 1930 - May 28, 2017