05/26/2026
Obituary for Steward "Mel" Gibson:
Steward “Mel” Melvon Gibson, Jr., age 84, of Clinton, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Methodist Medical Center. Mel was born on March 17, 1942, in Knoxville, to the late Steward Melvon Gibson and Lucy Wright Gibson.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, J.W. Gibson, and his wife, Edna; and his sisters, Maeola Donahue and husband J.C., and Betty Whaley and husband Wayman.
Mel was a hardworking man who took great pride in everything he did. He dedicated much of his life to construction work, where his strong work ethic, skillful hands, and willingness to help others earned the respect of many. Outside of work, he found peace and happiness tending to his garden, always enjoying the simple beauty of watching things grow.
Above all else, Mel’s greatest love was his family. His grandchildren were truly the pride and joy of his life, and nothing brought him more happiness than spending time with them, sharing stories, laughter, and making lasting memories. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and unconditional love that will be treasured by all who knew him.
He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ellen Gibson; sons, Wesley Gibson and wife Elizabeth, and James May and wife Wendy; daughter, Melody Carroll; grandchildren, Kate and Claire Gibson, Lucas and Lora May, Kayla Carroll and fiancé Chris Gardner, and Daniel Carroll and wife Stephanie; great-grandchildren, Layne, Emerie, and Ollie; sister, Jerelene Perryman; brother, Jim Gibson and wife Patricia; and his faithful fur companion, Jake.
The family will receive friends from 1:00-2:00 pm, Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Farmers Grove Baptist Church with a funeral service to follow. His graveside will immediately follow at Farmers Grove Baptist Church Cemetery. Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of all arrangements. Holleygamble.com