Jo Ann Gibbs, age 87, of Rural Gilson died on Friday, August 29, 2025, at her home surrounded by her family.
She was born on May 11, 1938, in Edwards, Illinois the daughter of Frank and Audrey (White) Hughbanks. She graduated from Knoxville High School, the class of 1956. She married Don LeRoy “Donnie” “Honey Bee” Gibbs on February 23, 1958 in Knoxville, Illinois. He preceded her in death on March 25, 2001.
Surviving are her children: Kathy (Roger) Secrist of East Galesburg, Illinois, Russell (Jami) Gibbs of Gilson, Illinois, Sean (Lori Johnson) Gibbs of Gilson, Illinois and Jason (Kelly) Gibbs of Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee; seven grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren; and a sister, Shirley Lowe of Galesburg, Illinois. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.
She worked as a waitress for the former Suzie’s Steak House in Knoxville, Illinois, then Dick Blick in Galesburg, Illinois; cook at the Knoxville High school Cafeteria for many years, then finally the Antique Mall in Galesburg, Illinois until she retired. She was a 4-H leader, member of the Knoxville Jr. Women’s Club’ Knoxville Women’s Club, Cirrhosis of Union Club. She was a member of the Knoxville Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday School for many years. She was an avid Cubs Fan. She enjoyed her time with her family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior to services at the Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Home & Crematory in Knoxville, Illinois, with Rev. David Shreeves officiating. She will be interred at the Knoxville Cemetery with her husband. The family invites everyone to the Fellowship following the graveside services at the Hurd-Hendricks Fellowship Center. Memorial may be made to St. Judes Children’s Hospital or to the Knoxville FFA. On-line condolences and/or expressions of sympathy may be sent through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com
