Carl Gibson

Carl Albert Gibson, 79, of Marshall, Michigan, passed away with loved ones by his side at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall on July 23, 2026.

Carl was born on May 14, 1947, in Hastings, Michigan, to Ethel and Paul Gibson. He went to high school at Thornapple-Kellogg High School and graduated in 1964. He went on to earn a bachelor of social science, a master’s degree in park and recreation resource management, and a PhD in resource development, all from Michigan State University. Prior to retiring in 2017, he worked as Director of Senior Services for Calhoun County for nine years. A career capstone was the opening of a county senior center in 2017, which became the Heritage Commons Senior Enrichment Center in 2022. He previously worked as Director of the Center for Long-Term Care at the Michigan Public Health Institute, Long-Term Care Policy Specialist for the State of Michigan, and Director of Parks and Recreation for Eaton County.

Earlier in life, he was a proud member of the United States Air Force, including active duty in the Philippines. In retirement, he remained engaged in the community, including as an ambassador for the Marshall Chamber of Commerce and as a member of several advisory committees for Oaklawn Hospital. He enjoyed getting out in nature, reading all manner of thought-provoking books, and walking around his community to check on friends and neighbors.

Carl is survived by his wife, Jamie (Ray) Gibson, his son, Benjamin Gibson (Christa), his stepdaughter, Heather Grogg (Jeffrey), his brothers, Ed Gibson (Christina) and Fred Gibson (the late Annemarie), and step-grandchildren, Alexander Grogg, Isabella Grogg, and Sophia Grogg. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Mary (Willett) Gibson, and his brothers, Jim Gibson (Kenna) and Keith Gibson.

Carl requested that no funeral be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Fountain Clinic (https://fountainclinic.org/fundraisers-and-donations/). The family wishes to extend its gratitude for the invaluable support of his close friends and for the wonderful care provided by the critical care team at Oaklawn Hospital toward the end of Carl’s life.

Carl was always community-minded and looking out for those in need. He would hope you can all carry that spirit forward in your lives.