Mark Gibson's Obituary
Dennis "Mark" Gibson
June 26, 1940 - April 4, 2026
Dennis "Mark" Gibson, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, coach, and lifelong educator, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026, at the age of 85 at his home in Coweta, OK.
Mark was born on June 26, 1940, in Bixby, Oklahoma. He was the youngest of twelve children, a role that shaped his strong spirit, deep sense of family, and lifelong ability to both lead and bring people together.
A proud graduate of Bixby High School, Mark was a standout athlete, earning All-State honors and playing in the North/South All-State game. He went on to play in the Texas/Oklahoma Oil Bowl before beginning his college football career at Oklahoma State University on scholarship, later transferring to Northeastern State University. At NSU, he was a two-way starter for three years, playing both fullback and defensive end. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Education in 1962 and later completed his Master's Degree in 1971.
Mark dedicated nearly three decades of his life to education and coaching, retiring in 1991. He taught and coached at Eufaula, Seminole, Yale, Tulsa Webster, and Tulsa East Central. During his 15 years as a head football coach in Tulsa, he mentored countless young men and helped shape lives far beyond the football field. He produced six All-State football players and was selected to coach the North/South All-State Football Game in 1974 and the Oklahoma/Texas Oil Bowl in 1977. His impact on his players and communities was lasting, rooted in discipline, integrity, and genuine care for others.
After retiring from coaching, Mark worked at Glenview Farms in Verdigris for more than 20 years, something he truly enjoyed and took great pride in.
Beyond his career, Mark had a deep love for the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who found peace and joy in nature. Whether in a deer stand at sunrise or casting a line on the water, those moments were some of his most treasured. He especially loved sharing that passion with his family, passing down not only the skills but an appreciation for time spent together.
On November 26, 1958, Mark married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Margaret Mae "Wilson" Gibson. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and community, sharing more than six decades of marriage before her passing in 2021. Their partnership was one of unwavering support, laughter, and deep love.
Mark is survived by his children, Larry Gibson and wife Laura of Coweta, and DeAnn Mashburn and husband Michael of Tahlequah; his grandchildren, Heather McDowell of Edmond, April Steele and husband Brandon of Bixby, Kyle Gibson and wife Courtney of Coweta, Colton Mashburn and wife Summer of Tahlequah, and Makenzie and Cade Mashburn of Tahlequah; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margaret Gibson; his parents Robert and Jackie Gibson; and his eleven siblings.
Mark will be remembered as a strong leader, a devoted family man, and a coach who left a lasting mark on every life he touched. His legacy lives on in the generations of family who adored him and in the many players and students who carry forward the lessons he taught.
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