Alvin David Gibson, III, 63, of Sunbright, TN passed away on January 29, 2021 due to complications with COVID-19 at Methodist Medical Center in Oak Ridge, TN.
Known as Dave to friends and family, he was born in Kokomo, IN on April 7, 1957 to Alvin and Peggy Pemberton Gibson. His early years were spent in Indiana, with frequent trips to Tennessee. He moved to Florida as a teenager, where he resided until retiring to Tennessee in 2014.
Dave was a skilled carpenter who honed his craft through decades of hard work in the construction industry. While living in Florida he owned a construction company before going to work for Raymond Lumber. In retirement, he was unable to sit still long and went to work for Appalachia Habitat for Humanity of Oneida, TN. On his days off he could often be found doing odd jobs around the house and lending a helping hand to friends, family and neighbors.
Although Dave was a man short on words, his children have many quote-worthy wisdoms that he passed on to them. The most famous of which is “shut the damn door”. They will forever shout this at their own children with fondness. He was also known by his family for his impressive ability to watch the same movie repeatedly. John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, Chris Farley and Adam Sandler movies were particular favorites. A favorite past-time of his included feeding the neighborhood squirrels and birds. The squirrels outside his home in Florida were known to seek him out in the window should he be delayed in feeding them. Upon retirement, he and his mother-in-law could often be found watching the hummingbird’s shenanigans at the feeder.
Dave is lovingly remembered by his wife and best friend, Donna, of Sunbright, TN and his three children: Adriane (Blake) Price of California, MD, Joshua Fike (Brittany Hunter) of Estero, FL and Alvin (Natalie) Gibson of Oak Ridge, TN. He found true joy in his role as Papa to Abby, Charlie, Wade, Maren, Cole and Ellie. We know he hopes they enjoy one more Kit Kat and bowl of ice cream on him, even if their parents object. Left with decades of fond memories are his siblings Joan (Art) Dorneman of Kokomo, IN, Clara (Johnny) Tanner of Autryville, NC, Texann Loggins of Chatsworth, GA, and sister-in-law, Carol Wager Hicks of Bunkerhill, IN. As well as his mother-in-law Gayle Michie of Sunbright, TN, brother-in-laws Robert Michie (Daphne) of Mineral Bluff, GA and Ronald Michie (Kathy) of Cape Coral, FL and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives. Dave is also survived by his children from a previous marriage, Dawn Gibson Cotton and Bryan Gibson.
Dave was preceded in death by his brother John Hicks. They were best buddies in life and will be laid to rest next to each other. He was also preceded in death by his parents and brother Alan Gibson. We can picture Dave laughing with his brothers and playing with his beloved dog, Duchess, now.
A joint graveside service for Dave and his brother, John, will be held at Daniel Memorial Cemetery on Saturday, April 24th at 11:00 am. A celebration of life will follow at Oneida City Park in Oneida, TN. Casual dress is requested.
In Dave's memory, we ask that everyone please consider wearing a face mask and take COVID-19 seriously. It is excruciating to witness a loved one suffer this virus and get taken before their time.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to Habitat for Humanity of Scott County or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
With the Health Guidelines in place at this time, we ask that you be mindful of the social distancing measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control. Masks are required.
West-Murley Funeral Home is serving the family of Alvin David Gibson, III.
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