Richard M. Gibson

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – Richard Merritt “Dick” Gibson, 61, of Winston-Salem, died Friday, March 23, 2007, at Forsyth Medical Center.

He was born Oct. 14, 1945, in Toledo, Ohio, a son of Merritt Gibson and the late Helen Hutchison Gibson. Richard was a graduate of the University of Toledo with a bachelor of arts in history, political science and psychology. He received a Master of Public Administration degree from Ohio State University and doctorate in history at Ohio State University. He was a research fellow in public administration at Ohio State University; instructor in history at Ohio State University; and a registrar at the School of Design at Toledo Museum of Art. Richard was employed with the Social Security Administration as a trainer and claims representative in Winston-Salem. He was a member of Centenary United Methodist Church, where he headed the Archives and History Department. He also served in the Chancel Choir; as a member of church council; former member of evangelism mission; Church Life Council; chair of singles ministry; facilitator in Disciple and Christian Believer studies; and lay coordinator of information/security services. He was a volunteer mentor/foster parent for United Methodist Children’s Home.

Surviving are his father, Merritt Gibson of Sumter, formerly of Manning; a special friend, Darlene Kennedy, and her family; three cousins, Charles and Sharon Cramer of Manning, Dan and Sharon Hutchison of Vancouver, Wash.; and Martin R. Hutchison of Hemet, Calif.

A memorial service was held on Wednesday, March 28, 2007, at Centenary United Methodist Church with the Rev. Dr. Michael Brown and the Rev. Jack Yarbrough officiating.

Memorials may be directed to Centenary United Methodist Church “Archives and History Department,” P.O. Box 658, Winston-Salem, N.C. 27102, or the charity of one’s choice.

J.C. Green and Sons Funeral Home, Wallburg Chapel, was in charge of arrangements.