GIBSON.--Rev. J. S. Gibson, the oldest and one of the best beloved ministers of Pennyslvania Synod, passed to his reward on March 18, 1907, at the age of 79 years, 10 months and 3 days. He had been engaged in the active work of the ministry for fifty years. His last charge was Pleasant Hill congregation, which charge he resigned but three years ago. He had preached in five different charges, which were located in Washington, Greene, Fayette and Jefferson counties. Some of his time he would have three or four congregations in his field, which made the work pretty hard for him. This was especially true during the latter part of his ministry. Very few young men in the ministry would have been willing to make the sacrifice and to have done the hard work he did in his old age. As a man he was unusually kind in his disposition and was a great lover of peace. His home was a typical Christian home, to which he loved to welcome his friends and neighbors. He had a wonderful gift in conversation which enabled him to entertain his guests in a pleasing manner, which made his presence desirable; and while he enjoyed telling a good joke, his conversation was pure, as becomes a minister of the gospel. As a citizen he was found on the right side of great moral questions which touched the interest of society and the nation. As a preacher he was plain and forceful, and above the average in ability. He had much of the spirit which characterized the pioneer ministers of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Pennsylvania. He was more than ordinarily successful, and took great delight in his work. As a presbyter he was looked upon as being a safe counselor, ever ready to pour oil on the troubled waters if strife should arise. He was born in Preston county, W. Va.; secured his education at Greene Academy at Carmichaels, Pa., and in the Pittsburg high school; received his theological training from Dr. Fairchild, of the Presbyterian Church. Was married three times. His first wife was Miss Priscilla A. Richards. Three children by his first wife survive him--namely, Mary E. Davis, of Knoxville; Jennie Teal, of Rice's Landing; and Agnes Swan, of Confluence. His second wife was Annie B. Stewart, by whom he had one son, Harry, of Punxsutawney, Pa. His third wife was Emma Tait, by whom he had two sons, Sanford and Herschel, both at home. His funeral services were held in the Pleasant Hill church, and his interment was in the cemetery near by. The services were conducted by Rev. J. R. Burson and the writer of this article.--D. A. Cooper.
[Source: The Cumberland Presbyterian, April 18, 1907, page 511]
Ministerial Necrology
NAME: J. S. Gibson
OCCUPATION: Honorably Retired
PRESBYTERY: Pennsylvania
PLACE OF DEATH: Ten Mile, Pa.
DATE: Mar. 18, 1907
AGE: 79
[Source: PCUSA General Assembly Minutes, 1907, page 265]