Eddie Ray “Big Ed” Gibson Sr., 76, of Eagle Rock, Mo. passed away Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at Mercy Hospital in Cassville, Mo.

He was born March 3, 1947, in Chanute, Kan., the son of Edward L. and Frances (Leatherman) Gibson, who preceded him in death.

Also preceding him in death was his brother, Ed Leatherman.

Survivors include his loving wife, Paula Gibson; two sons, Eddie Gibson Jr. and his wife Gracie Whiteside of Eagle Rock, Mo. and Shane Peterson and his wife Brandi of Clyde, Kan.; two daughters, Cora Ray and her husband Carl of Butterfield, Mo. and Ruth Harris and her husband Tony of Springfield, Mo.; two brothers, Steve Gibson and his wife Barb of Oklahoma City, Okla. and Stan Gibson of Andover, Kan.; one sister, Judy Sisco of Checotah, Okla.; 11 grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and one on the way.

He attended school in El Dorado, Kan. He joined the United States Army in 1964 and served during the Vietnam War Era. He worked as a boilermaker for 25 years with Local Union 83 from where he retired in 2002. He moved to Eagle Rock, Mo. in 1996 and met Paula, the love of his life.

A memorial service with military honors was held Saturday, January 27, 2024 at Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville, Mo. Pastor Greg Hagebusch conducted the services.

Contributions may be made to Hospice Compassus of Monett in memory of Big Ed.