It is with deep sadness and gratitude for her life that we announce the passing of our beautiful and beloved Nancy Lou (Lawson) Gibson, who peacefully entered the arms of her Lord and Savior on March 2, 2025, at the age of 85. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Orpha Ray Gibson. Nancy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Her love for Jesus and family was displayed throughout her life.

Born on April 15, 1939 in Fair Grove, Missouri, Nancy was the daughter of Clarence and Elvena Lawson. She grew up  on a dairy farm, where she learned all of her farming and homemaking skills. Nancy attended college at SMS (now Missouri State Univeristy) and the University of Arkansas, where she completed her studies and achieved her Masters degree. She used her skills and knowledge in home economics to teach at Koshkonong, Altamont, and later, Blue Eye high school.  After teaching, Nancy went back to her roots as a farmer and homemaker in Blue Eye, Missouri, where she assisted Ray in maintaining the

homestead and raising their three children. Throughout all stages of life, she was always guided by her strong faith in Christ. Her love for Jesus was the cornerstone of her life, and she shared that love through her kindness, selflessness, and unwavering faith. Her faith was displayed to all who knew her and in the church choir, where she sang with her beautiful voice. Nancy found great joy in letting her praises ring in song and worship wherever she was.

Nancy married Ray on December 23, 1962, and together they shared 62 years of love and devotion. Nancy raised three beautiful children, Greg, Ann, and Bettrys, who she lovingly cared for with a heart full of grace. Whether through her warm and soft embrace, God-given wisdom, or selfless acts of service, she created a legacy of love and kindness that will live on for generations.

In addition to her husband and various other nieces and nephews, she is survived by the

following:

Brother – Dale Lawson

Daughters – Nancy Ann Wortham (Jefffrey) and Bettrys Huffman (Grier)

Son – Gregory Ray Gibson (Olya)

Granddaughters – Danielle Rhoads (Jonathan) and Natalie Gibson (Christian)

Grandson – Nathaniel Poivre (Brooke)

Great-Grandson – Michael Ray Rhoads

Her life was a testament to her love of Christ and family, and we take comfort in knowing she is now in His eternal presence, accompanied by all of His angels.

Nancy’s Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025 at 11:00 AM at the First Baptist, Blue Eye.  Burial will follow in Blue Eye Cemetery.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Thursday at Greenlawn Funeral Home in Branson.

Though we grieve, we choose to celebrate her life and the eternal faith she had in Jesus Christ. Her memory will continue to inspire all who knew her.