Donald N. Gibson

Donald N. Gibson was embraced by peace on July 23, 2022, at home surrounded by loved ones. Don was born in Oneonta, NY in 1937 and graduated from New Berlin Central School in 1955. After graduation he served in the US Army until 1957, stationed in Japan. Don then went on to college at SUNY Oneonta and graduated with a Bachelor’s in 1963 and then later his Master’s in Education Administration. Don began his 50-year education career in 1961, serving as a 5th grade teacher in Edmenston, and later a high school social studies teacher in Leonardsville. In LaFayette, Don was a Driver’s Ed instructor, bus driver, basketball coach, Assistant Principal, and Principal. Afterwards he went to Seneca Falls as a Principal. He continued his career as a Superintendent of Schools in Richmondville, and later in Cairo, New York. He was proud to have implemented several different programs that are still active today. After retirement, Don remained active in local community groups, and serving as interim Superintendent of Schools nine times in surrounding school districts. Of particular note, Don co-chaired with his wife the Cairo-Durham Reach Work Camp, in 2010 and 2014. The Cairo-Durham schools housed hundreds of students both summers. The Reach Work Camp provided home repairs to disenfranchised residents throughout the Cairo-Durham School District. He took an active role in the grandchildren’s lives by attending sporting events, birthday parties, summer vacations, holidays, and any milestones. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Laurence and Eunice (Simser). He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years Betty (Gilmour), devoted children Donald (Patricia) and Donna (Sieg), and wonderful grandchildren Kyle, Collin, and Ryan (Gibson); and Deric and Dayana (Obeldobel). The calling hours will be held at The Cairo United Methodist Church, 488 Main Street, Cairo, N.Y., at 10:00 A.M., Friday, July 29th, 2022, followed by a Celebration of Life Ceremony at 12:00 noon, at the church, with Pastor Saebuek Lee of The Cairo United Methodist Church, officiating. Donations may be made to The Cairo United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 552, Cairo, N.Y., 12413. Arrangements are under the direction of Richards Funeral Home, Cairo, N.Y. Condolences may be made at www.richardsfuneralhomeinc.net.

Donald N. Gibson

June 13, 1937 - July 23, 2022