Gary Ray Gibson

Gary Ray Gibson, 66, of Daleville, Virginia, passed away on February 12, 2025. He was born on February 24, 1958 in Norton, Virginia. He is preceded in death by his mother and father, Laura Frazier Gibson and Herbert Ray Gibson of Fairlawn, Virginia.

Gary grew up in Fairlawn, Virginia and attended Pulaski County High School. One of his greatest accomplishments there was playing basketball with his twin brother, Larry, where they became known as “Double Trouble.” He was a stand-out athlete and never let an opportunity go by to share stories of this time with anyone who would listen. He was proud of his achievements and considered those years some of the best.

Gary was hard-working. He spent over 45 years in the heavy duty truck industry, most recently employed at Truck Enterprises of Roanoke. He was also a realtor, which he enjoyed very much, embracing the opportunity to meet many new friends. After Gary retired from full-time work, he found great purpose and joy working as a substitute teacher at James River High School and Central Academy Middle School. Just hearing the words “Mr. Gary” would bring a smile to his face. He knew God had placed him in this special role and we will forever be grateful for the welcoming he received from these wonderful people.

It was very important to Gary to be involved in serving his community. He spent many years volunteering his time at Northside High School, including PTA leadership, announcing basketball games, working the concession stand, and being one of Northside’s biggest (and loudest) cheerleaders. Gary was a dedicated member of Genesis United Methodist, previously known as, Southview United Methodist Church, for over 25 years. His greatest passion was leading his Sunday School class. He loved learning more about his faith and preparing weekly lessons for discussion with friends. He also served in many areas, including leadership, mission work in the church community, and occasional trips to Honduras. Gary loved Sundays. He adored his church family. From the bottom of our hearts we know God has welcomed his faithful servant home to Heaven.

Above all else, Gary loved being with his family. Whether it was spending time with his wife Gloria, of 42 years, dancing or watching sports with his daughter Jaime, plotting sales with his son Scott, playing “monster” with his grandson Andrew, his every day chats and sport debates with his identical twin brother Larry, or his many fishing trips and adventures with his younger brother Tommy, Gary was absolutely devoted to his family.

Gary gave the absolute best hugs and was larger than life. You immediately knew when Gary entered a room, not just because you could hear him, but because he effortlessly had a way of making everyone feel welcome and special. He was a role model, coach and second dad to many. Gary enjoyed sports, trout fishing with special friends, jamming to KISS (or anything rock n’ roll), going to concerts and games, making people laugh, and “pretending” to help with tasks while actually walking around socializing. He called it “supervising”. He was the very best dad, paw paw, husband, brother, and friend.

Those left here missing him greatly are his wife Gloria, his children Scott (Amy), Jaime, his grandchildren Andrew, Natalie, and Elizabeth, his brothers and sisters-in-law Larry (Gale), and Tommy (Lori), his grand dog Harker Rae, as well as many close friends and extended family members.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Sunday, February 23 at 3:00 at Genesis United Methodist Church, with Rev. Warren Carsewll and Rev. Jeff Wilson officiating, 3539 Peters Creek Road, Roanoke, VA 24019. Flowers for the service may be sent to the church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Genesis United Methodist Church, which was closest to Gary’s heart. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home Peters Creek Road Chapel. (540)366-0707.