Lionel Lewis Gibson of Potosi, Missouri departed this life on June 20, 2006 at his residence, having reached the age of 87 years, 8 months and 13 days. He was born at Shoal Creek, Missouri on October 7, 1918, a son of the late Joseph Bradley Gibson and Lizzie (Gilliam) Gibson.
On May 23, 1941, Lionel was united in marriage to Ruby Jane Skaggs and they shared over 59 and ? years together. Ruby preceded him in death on December 19, 2000. In addition to his parents and his wife, Lionel was preceded in death by his step mother, Rebecca Gibson, a daughter, Melba Jean Gibson; sisters, Vernal Skaggs and Francis Osborn Swank; a step sister, Marie Reed and a step brother, Omar Litton.
Lionel was a local business man for many years. He owned and operated a gas station, was a jobber for Phillips 66, a cattle farmer, and a heavy equipment operator and business partner with his son, Bill Gibson, until he retired at the age of 86.
He will be remembered for many things, including his quick jokes, big smile, work ethics, generosity, and genuine concern for others. He enjoyed visiting and having meals with his family and friends and showing off the tricks he had taught his dog, Old Yeller. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren
He is survived by his son, William ?Billy Joe? Gibson and wife Sharon of Potosi; a brother, Joe Gibson and wife Agnes of St. Louis; a step-sister, Idabelle Lore and husband Bernis of Potosi; two grandchildren, Tonya Bradley and husband Matt, and Shelley Gibson; two great grandchildren, Eli Bradley and Madeline Bradley.
Funeral services were conducted on Friday, June 23, 2006 at 10 AM at the Britton Chapel, Potosi, Missouri with Rev. Melvin Reed and Rev. Leonard Compton officiating. Serving as pallbearers were Matt Bradley, Dean Johnson, Bill Johnson, Jerry West, Jon Boyer and Donnie Hawkins.
Interment and final prayers were held at Sunset Hill Cemetery. All arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Britton Funeral Home of Potosi.