James E. Gibson

James “Jim” Edwin Gibson, of Rockford, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the love of his family, on June 1, 2026. He was 86 years old.

Jim was born on May 18, 1940, in Burlington, Vermont, to Urbane and Genevieve (Moore) Gibson. He grew up with a strong sense of duty and purpose, qualities that would guide him throughout his life. Following his education, he proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving for five and a half years. During his military service, he was stationed in both Europe and Tripoli, gaining experiences that shaped the thoughtful and dependable man his family knew and loved.

After completing his service, Jim began a career with Sears, where fate introduced him to the love of his life, Diane. Their relationship blossomed, and they were married on January 19, 1980, at Willow Creek Presbyterian Church of Argyle, in a ceremony officiated by Jim’s father. Together, they built a beautiful life and shared 46 years of love, partnership, and devotion.

Jim spent 27 years with Sears, advancing into retail management through hard work and dedication. He retired in 1995, leaving behind a career marked by integrity.

Above all else, Jim was a family man. He found his greatest happiness in the company of those he loved. Whether gathered around the dinner table, celebrating milestones, or simply enjoying each other's presence, he treasured every moment spent with family.

In his free time, Jim enjoyed fishing, woodworking, photography, and baking. He had a gift for creating things with both his hands and his heart. Family members will fondly remember the aroma of homemade bread and cinnamon rolls coming from his kitchen. One of his most cherished traditions was baking a triple-layer chocolate cake for Diane every year on her birthday, a sweet expression of the love he carried for her throughout their marriage.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Diane; his children, Jay (Michelle) Gibson, Lara (Josh Petersen) Gibson, Kris (James) Warner, and Cyndi Lindstrom; his grandchildren, Alexander, Arrienne, Tamsen, Zada, and Jace Gibson, Megan Byrne, Berkley Phelps, Nikki Reagan, Alexander D. Gibson, Aibreah Gibson-Bridges, and James Gibson; his sister, Sharon Pringey; sisters-in-law, Marlys Nethery and Marcy Olson; and many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Urbane and Genevieve Gibson.

Jim’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and caregivers of Northern Illinois Hospice for the compassionate care they provided during his final days. They are also deeply thankful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from family and friends, which has brought comfort and solace during this difficult time.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory-Mulford Chapel, 4311 N. Mulford Road, Loves Park, IL 61111 on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made directly to the family or in Jim’s memory to the National Foundation for Cancer Research.

James’ legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the countless memories his loved ones will carry in their hearts forever.

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