IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Sfc (Ret)

Sfc (Ret) Donald “Duck” Gibson Profile Photo

Donald “Duck” Gibson

Mar 20, 1962 — May 12, 2026

Obituary

Donald Gibson, known to many as "Duck", 64, of Prince George, VA, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones at the family home. He was born on March 20, 1962, in Long Branch, New Jersey, to the late Nancy and James Gibson, Donald was one of fourteen siblings.

Donald was predeceased by his parents, brothers, James, Ronald, and Randy, and sister, Mary, mother-in-law, Annie Mae Smith, father-in-law, Nathaniel Smith, and brother-in-law, Charles Diggs.

For Donald, life was defined by courage, devotion, and service. Donald attended his early school years in Long Branch, New Jersey, before joining the military.  While in the military he diligently served for 22 years.  During his distinguished military career, he was awarded various awards including the Meritorious Service Medal (three times), Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal Award, National Defense Service Medal, Army Good Conduct, Army Superior Unit Award, Noncommissioned Officer's Professional Development Ribbon (three times), Overseas Service Ribbons, among many others.

Donald continued to pursue his education receiving his Associate in Arts Degree from St. Leo University, Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration Degree from St. Leo University and University of Maryland, and Master Degree of Science in Administration and Resource Management. After retiring from the military Donald began working for the United States Government with his last employment as Chief Director of System Test and Evaluation, working in the Program Management Office at DECA, Fort Lee, VA.

Donald was a man of great faith and loved the Lord. He was a member of Arlington Road Church of Christ, Hopewell, VA, where he worshiped faithfully until his health declined.

Donald was an avid football fan especially of the" Philadelphia Eagles," he didn't and wouldn't miss a game, he also had a love for fishing, grilling, and spending time with his family. Donald was a very private and humble man with unwavering dedication to his family and his country. Beyond the uniform, Donald was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Known for his kindness and generosity, his presence brought warmth and strength to everyone who knew him.

Left to cherish his memories of 42 years his loving wife, Diane Gibson; devoted son, Antonio Smith and devoted granddaughter, D'Shani Smith, grandsons, Dshon Starke, Dior Barnes and D'Amairi Edmonds; six sisters, Jessie, Theresa, Peggy, Angela, Patricia and Monica; three brothers, Doughlas, Larry, and Robert; brothers-in-law, Nathaniel (Michelle) and Daniel (Latosha); and one sister-in-law, Rose Humphrey. Also, cherishing his memories are devoted friends, David Batts of Petersburg, VA, Krause Johnson of Prince George, VA, and Mrs. Cynthia Cherry of Petersburg, VA; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends; and his loving pet, "Peanut."

1 Corinthians 13:4-5 Love is patient, Love is Kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

Services will be held 11:00 A.M., Saturday, May 23, 2026, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, Bishop William Edwards, eulogist and Rev. Allison Bland Tucker, officiaiting. The interment to follow at Southlawn Memorial Park.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. . Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/5950888?fl=so&fe=fs

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Funeral Services

Viewing

May
22

Friday

J M WILKERSON FUNERAL ESTABLISHMENT, INC.

102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA 23803-4220

9:00 am - 8:00 pm

Funeral Service

May
23

Saturday

The Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc.

102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA 23803-4220

Starts at 11:00 am

Interment

May
23

Saturday

Starts at 12:00 pm

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