James Franklin Gibson

James Franklin Gibson, 79, of Reidsville passed away peacefully on November 22, 2023.

A graveside funeral service will be held 11:00 AM, Monday, November 27, 2023, at Dan River Primitive Baptist Church with Mr. Roger Johnson officiating. The family will receive friends Sunday, November 26, 2023, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM at Wilkerson Funeral Home and other times at the home.

The son of the late Percy Gibson and Mabel Vaughn Gibson, he was the youngest of nine siblings. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by three brothers Elvin Gibson, Dallas Gibson and Warren Gibson as well as three sisters Bettye Ferrell, Norma Rachel Gibson, and Jerrene Elliott.

James was a devoted husband, loving father and was known for his sense of humor and playful nature. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Patsy Carter Gibson; daughter Leigh Harris (Matthew) and son Matt Gibson; brother Kenneth Gibson (Glenda); and sister Cora Joyce (Don).

A lifelong resident of Rockingham County, James graduated from Ruffin High School. After high school, James began working at Burlington Industries and later was employed at Miller Brewing for 29 ½ years until he retired. James played softball at Jaycee Park and with church leagues for many years and was known on the ballfield as “Hoot”. Later he enjoyed watching his children play school sports. James knew the value of hard work and was always willing to help out on his in-law’s farm throughout the years, planting and priming tobacco, growing vegetables, cutting wood, and harvesting honey. James spent most of his mornings with his friends at Carolina Café and on occasion reminiscing with past  coworkers at retiree lunches. Most recently James loved naps with his lap dog, Griffey.