Patricia Sue Gibson's Obituary
Patricia Sue Gibson, beloved mother, devoted wife, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, surrounded by her family at Montereau in Tulsa, at the age of 84. Born on March 1, 1940, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Pat was the daughter of Secondino Joseph and Rebecca Martinez Prado.
Growing up as one of seven children, Pat learned the value of hard work and compassion at an early age. She fondly remembered her weekends spent helping her parents make tamales for their tamale cart and business. This tradition instilled in her a sense of generosity and community spirit.
Pat's passion for music led her to play the coronet in the Pride of Muskogee band, where her talent and dedication shone brightly. She furthered her education at Northeastern State University, where she met the love of her life, Eldon Van Gibson. Married June 8, 1959, the couple embarked on a journey that would span a lifetime.
From their union, three children were born, a son and two daughters. Pat excelled as a mother. She was known for her nurturing spirit, always ensuring that her children were cared for and loved. Pat's kindness extended beyond her own family; she opened her heart and home to anyone in need, particularly to OBU students during holidays when they had nowhere else to go.
Pat was deeply committed to her faith. She was a dedicated member of University Baptist Church and Immanuel Baptist both in Shawnee, where she generously volunteered her time to assist with weddings. Her creativity knew no bounds. She delighted in crafting beautiful floral arrangements and participated in the handbell choir. She was also involved in several medical mission trips in Ecuador.
In her early years, she worked as bookkeeper for Coca-Cola while her husband was serving in the military. She was also an avid bowler, winning numerous trophies alongside other military wives, demonstrating her competitive spirit and skill.
Even in her later years, while in the memory care at Montereau, Pat continued to serve others selflessly. She would often assist other residents who had difficulty feeding themselves or participating in other daily activities. She affectionately referenced others as "Darlin'" or "Toots," further exhibiting her warm personality.
In the hearts of those who knew her, Pat's legacy of kindness, compassion, and service will continue to inspire for generations to come. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Pat is survived by daughters Marcia and her husband Mickey Madden, Cindy and her husband John Yarbrough and daughter-in-law Sue and her husband David McLemore. Mimi was blessed with twenty-four grandchildren, Joshua and wife Brittney Gibson, Julie and husband Josh Kummerfeld, Jordan and wife Aisha Gibson, Ashley and husband Jeremy Bridges, Hanley and wife Abby Kincaid, Bradley and wife Lacy Kincaid, Kristin and husband Chris Stephens, Amy and husband Charles Wheat, Melissa Blythe, Katie Yarbrough, Tyler and wife Brittney Yarbrough, Ty and wife Jennie Madden and Carissa and husband Cody Valle. She is blessed with 16 great-grandchildren, Blakley and Luke Gibson, Anasha, Colette and Margaret Kummerfeld, Lilah and Nora Gibson, Bryton and Waylon Bridges, Lily and Ransom Kincaid, Gunner and Halen Kincaid, Samantha, Rowan and Teddy Stephens.
Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Eldon Van Gibson, son, Robert Mark Gibson, parents, Secondino and Rebecca Prado, brother, Frank Prado, and sisters, Oliva Daniels and Lucille Banks.
Pat's life will be celebrated in a funeral ceremony at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in the Rivercrest Chapel of Bixby-South Tulsa Funeral Service. Following the ceremony, a reception and luncheon will be held in the Great Room, where friends and family will gather to honor her memory. Interment will take place at 3 PM at Resthaven Cemetery in Shawnee.
What’s your fondest memory of Patricia?
What’s a lesson you learned from Patricia?
Share a story where Patricia's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Patricia you’ll never forget.
How did Patricia make you smile?