05/27/2026
Emma Gibson, 87, of Ambridge, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026. Born to the late John and Lela Young, Emma lived a life centered on faith, family, and service to others.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Rev. James H. Gibson; and her siblings, Rev. John Young II, Dora Hobson, Dorothy Davis, Edna Hauser, Laura Phelps, Marva Clinkscales, Maxine Young, and Marion Young.
She leaves behind to cherish her memory her children, James H. Gibson Jr., Eric T. (Sonya) Gibson, Ayme Gibson, Julius (Maggie) Boler, and Rev. Robert Young; grandchildren, Jared Gibson, Jamison (Rachel) Gibson, Charese Anderson, Eric Gibson Jr., and Xzavier Gibson; as well as a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will deeply miss her loving presence.
Emma was a proud graduate of Beaver Falls High School and later attended Seton Hill University in Greensburg, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She dedicated many years of compassionate care as a nurse at Sewickley Valley Hospital before beginning a second career working alongside her son as an on-call nurse at Holy Family Institute. Never one to slow down, she later spent eight years working at FedEx. To many, she was lovingly known simply as “Granny.”
A devoted woman of faith, Emma was a longtime member of Behold the Lamb of God Revival Center in Steubenville, Ohio, where she faithfully served beside her husband, Rev. James H. Gibson, for 35 years as a praise and worship leader. She also taught Sunday school and touched countless lives through her ministry, kindness, and encouragement.
Emma enjoyed staying active with her friends in the Silver Sneakers exercise group and sharing her love of music as a member of the Singleton Singers in her early years, performing at churches throughout the area. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures, including sitting on her porch swing, planting flowers, visiting the Ambridge Farmers Market, and attending the activities and events of her children and grandchildren. She also loved singing Gospel hymns, coloring, completing word searches, and crocheting.
Known for her caring spirit, Emma was a source of comfort and strength to her family and community. She dedicated her life to helping others and will be remembered as a healer, caregiver, and friend to all who knew her.
A special thank you for spectacular, loving, compassionate caretaker Maureka Russell and her daughter Ahouner.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 12:00 PM at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge. Burial will be held privately.
