Willard Clayton Gibson, 88, of Marthasville, Missouri, passed away peacefully in his home on December 26, 2022.  On May 11, 1983 he was united in marriage to Loretta Burns in San Antonio, Texas and enjoyed 40 years of marriage. He was baptized in the Baptist faith.

Son of the late Clarence and Zilpha Gibson, he was born on September 4, 1934, in Booneville, Arkansas. As a child his family moved to Fallbrook, California where he received his education from Fallbrook Union High School in 1952. He proudly served his country in the US Army, 6 ^th Infantry Division, as a Communication Officer. He worked for San Diego Gas & Electric and the propane industry which eventually brought him to Missouri. His love was always carpentry and later became a carpenter by trade.

He was best known as Babe, Dad, Pops, Willie, Curlie and Will.  He was a man of many interests but had a passion for furniture woodworking. Throughout his life he created many custom pieces for family such as Adirondack chairs, tables, chests and game boards.  He was an avid reader, reading more than 100 novels yearly with a great interest in American West history, having collected and read every Louis L 'Amour novel published. He enjoyed traveling and long road trips with Loretta.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, and three siblings, Dorothy Cooper, Connie Gibson and Dee Gibson, all of California.

Willard is survived by his wife, Loretta; as well as his former spouse, Sharren Gibson of St. Clair, their sons, Tarry Gibson of Idaho, Alan (Kolleen) Gibson of Arizona, Ron (Dalene) Gibson of St. Clair, daughter, Karen (Steve) Berra of Union; step-daughters, Debbie (John) Fox of Marthasville, Chris (Bryan) Doehring of Arkansas, Joan (Larry) Flora of St. Clair, Jean Rampani of St. Clair. He was a beloved grandpa to 16 grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren.

Willard lived a long and happy life. He was a gentle giant, good man, devoted husband, loving father and grandfather.  He will be sadly missed and forever in our hearts.

A private graveside service will be held for family.  Memorial donations can be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.