Harold David Gibson Sr., 92, of Gloucester, Virginia, passed away on October 3, 2025.
Dr. Gibson was born on August 12, 1933, and grew up in Norton, Virginia. He spent most of his adult life in Richmond. He was an active member and leader at River Road Church, Baptist, and in a Kiwanis Club in Richmond. Dr. Gibson served his country in the United States Army.
He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was much loved by family and friends, known for being a true Southern gentleman and for his positive outlook. He was called “Happy” by his grandchildren.
Dr. Gibson spent his career as an educator serving as principal of Westhampton Elementary School, Clover Hill High School, and as assistant superintendent for Chesterfield Public Schools. He earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Richmond, and his master’s and doctorate degrees in education at William & Mary. He was a pioneer in the use of computers in public education.
He enjoyed fly fishing, watching Richmond Spiders basketball, spending time with family at Sunset Beach, N.C., and tinkering with old radios, and reading.
Dr. Gibson was preceded in death by his parents, Isaac Newton Gibson and Leah Lucinda Shortt, and he is survived by his wife, Joyce Still Gibson; sons, Harold David Gibson Jr. (Sherry), James Newton Gibson (Dana), Kenneth William Gibson (Beth); grandson, John “Jack” Kenneth Gibson; granddaughters, Katherine Elizabeth Gibson, Ellen Paige Gibson, and Emily Catherine Gibson.
The family extends its gratitude to the staff at Sanders Assisted Living, Heron Cove Skilled Nursing, and hospice caregiver Megan Mooney.
Family and friends will be received at River Road Church, Baptist, Fellowship Hall, in Richmond, at an 11:30 a.m. reception Saturday, October 11. Funeral services will be held at River Road Church, Baptist, sanctuary at 1 p.m. Saturday, October 11, followed by burial at Westhampton Cemetery on Patterson Avenue. Pastors Daniel Bagby and Daniel Glaze will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: River Road Church, Baptist, 8000 River Road, Richmond, Va. 23229.