Opal M. Gibson

Gibson, Opal M., age 86 Vandalia, passed away Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at Miami Valley Hospital. She was born July 6, 1938 in Blackwater, Virginia, daughter of the late Johnie H. & Virgie M. (Vaughan) Bledsoe.

In addition to her parents, Opal was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence E. Gibson. Survived by daughters Lori Gilbert (Douglas) of Kentucky and Lisa Blankenship of Vandalia, Ohio; grandchildren, Trenton Gilbert, Dylan Gilbert, Lily Blakenship, Addison Blankenship, Breann Blankenship; sisters Velda Baker (David), Jewel Blakeley, Elizabeth Ann (Bekky) Bledsoe; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins, and friends.

Opal retired from the City of Dayton. She also worked for many years at Lyon Apparel and owned and operated Old Town Autobody in Trotwood following the death of her husband.

Opal was a long-time member of Salem Church of God. She also enjoyed attending events at the Vandalia Nazarene Church with her sister. Her most treasured times were those spent with her grandchildren. They were her pride and joy and loved being a “Maw.” She attended many sporting events, school functions, and other educational opportunities. She prided herself in taking her grandchildren to places that would offer a great adventure where learning was always the priority. Some of the places she was most fond of visiting was the Wright Patterson Airforce Base, Dayton Air Show, and other events around the area. Opal enjoyed boating and fishing and was a secret dog lover.

Pallbearers will be Douglas Gilbert, Trenton Gilbert, Dylan Gilbert, Jeremiah Fisher, Brian Browning, and Jim Davee.