Howard "Owen" Gibson

Howard "Owen" Gibson, 88, passed away at 1:22 a.m. on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at St. Rita's Medical Center in Lima, Ohio. Owen was born on October 8, 1935, in Rockwood, Tennessee, to Earl and Faye (East) Gibson, both of whom preceded him in death.

Owen's early education began in Lima, Ohio, where his family moved when he was in first grade. He attended school there through the tenth grade, before returning to Rockwood, Tennessee, for his junior and senior years at Rockwood High School, graduating in 1953. The passing of his father during Owen's senior year marked the start of his first career, as he and his mother ran Gibson's Station and Cabin Rentals, a business serving tourists, which later became a neighborhood grocery and carry-out. Despite long hours of work, Owen remained committed to his education, eventually earning four degrees over the course of his life.

After selling the family business, Owen taught GED classes for several years at the Morgan County Correctional Facility, where he found fulfillment in helping others further their education. He was also an active member of the Rockwood Chamber of Commerce, where he joined the prestigious President’s Club. Known for his warm and friendly personality, Owen took great joy in welcoming new residents during his time at Kessler Assisted Living, where he resided during the past year.

A devoted fan of the Tennessee Volunteers and a secondary supporter of the Ohio State Buckeyes, Owen enjoyed following his favorite teams. In his later years, his favorite pastime was watching classic films on Turner Classic Movies.

Owen is survived by two nephews, Denny (Lynn) Ley of Lima, Ohio, and Al (Terri) Ley of Marblehead, Ohio; his niece, Janice (Ron) Roberts of Lima, Ohio; as well as numerous great and great-great nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his two brothers, "Baby" Gibson and “Little Earl” Gibson, his sister Marilyn Ley Rhind, his brother-in-law Bill Ley, and several other beloved family members.

A graveside service and eulogy will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Oak Grove Cemetery in Rockwood, TN. Friends and family are warmly welcomed to attend.

Courtesy obituary is post by Evans Mortuary of Rockwood, TN. Evans Mortuary is not associated with this service.