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Henry Gibson Obituary
Gibson's son, James, said Gibson died at his home in Malibu after a brief battle with cancer.
After serving in the Air Force and studying at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, Gibson — born James Bateman in Philadelphia in 1935 — created his Henry Gibson comic persona, a pun on playwright Henrik Ibsen's name, while working as a theater actor in New York. For three seasons on "Laugh-In," he delivered satirical poems while gripping a giant flower.
After "Laugh-In," Gibson went on to appear in several films, including "The Long Goodbye" and "Nashville," which earned him a Golden Globe nomination. His most memorable roles included playing the menacing neighbor opposite Tom Hanks in "The 'Burbs," the befuddled priest in "Wedding Crashers" and voicing Wilbur the Pig in the animated "Charlotte's Web."
His recent work included playing cantankerous Judge Clarence Brown on ABC's "Boston Legal" for five seasons and providing the voice of sardonic, eye-patched reporter Bob Jenkins on Fox's "King of the Hill." In 2001, Gibson returned to the stage in New York in the Encores! New York City Center production of Rodgers and Hart's "A Connecticut Yankee."
Copyright © 2009 The Associated Press
403 Entries
Giovanni Salvatore
August 24, 2018
Henry Gibson you will be missed. You made us all laugh thru out our lives. My heart goes out to the family and children. We are in Philadelphia PA. My name is Giovanni from Towing by the hook. See you on the other side. God bless you and your family
Allison Dupont
March 8, 2016
Never forgotten, Rest in Peace sir.
Harry Simpson
September 14, 2014
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Rest Henry, until you hear at dawn,
the low, clear reveille of God.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
How you can show support
Lisa Weiner
November 28, 2013
To Henry Gibson,
You were a great actor. You made me laugh. My prayers go to you and your family. Lisa Weiner
somewhere...
August 2, 2013
Elin Lloyd
July 10, 2013
What a wonderful person he was i adore him very much and if all ways thought that he was my soul mate love him very much cant wait to see him in the next life i hope hes face will be the first thing i see sorry to his family your lucky that Henry was a part of your life what i would off given to have been a part of his life in some way !! x he was loved here in Wales Uk as well
Richard Owen
March 3, 2013
Rest In Peace, Kind Sir. See You On The Other Side Some Beautiful Day.
Daniel Van Ness
December 13, 2012
He'll always be remembered as Wilbur, the fun loving pig in 'Charlotte's Web' (1973).
Daniel Van Ness
December 13, 2012
We'll always remember him as the 1st and original voice for Wilbur, the pig in 'Charlotte's Web' (1973).
Hugh Smith
July 30, 2011
A child actor who did it all - school productions, TV commercials, then on to the nightclub circuit, a recording artist, stage and TV as a dramatic actor, movies, TV comedy and drama series, and a prolific writer. Henry was an Air Force intelligence officer, a professionally trained actor,a family man, and a warm, gentle, and loving person. It was fun to be his "audience" at his parents' house as he developed and rehearsed the role of Henry Gibson. We all miss you, Cousin Jimmy.
Jane Alessi Bunch
January 2, 2011
Aunt Nancy, Christy, Ronny and Laurie,
In loving Memory of my Uncle Tony,
My Godfather, My Mother's 1st cousin, My Dad's best friend (Gumba), I have such wonderful and memories of him through out of life. Sunday dinner's, Picnic's at water works, boat rides on the little Toot, Thompson's Bay,the marina and on the boat, the dock, sled riding,getting stuck in the ditch in the snow for , holidays, reunions, and of course wonderful fun vacations with the family...and Florida! It's Uncle Tony time, is what we would sing every time he came back here for the winter season. This is a sad time for us who will miss him and loved him for so long, he is at peace now. RIP Uncle Tony, I will always hold a dear place in my heart for you!
Love you,
Always,
jane
John & Carol Perry
December 18, 2010
Take comfort in the Love you two shared over the years and the warmth in your heart for eachother.
Rhonda Pearson
October 1, 2010
We are so sorry to hear of you loss.you have our deeptest sympathy.
Shiolh Baptist Church Missionary Ministry
Daphne Johnson ,PRESIDEND
Rhonda Pearson,Online Ministry
March 7, 2010
For Henry...
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Jerod Howard
February 21, 2010
"I had the privilege to meet Mr. Gibson while working on a television show out of Chicago. A lot of his early work was already in syndication when I was a kid, and I still felt I grew up with him because in entertainment, he was everywhere. I was working as a stand in at the time, and recognizing him immediately I thought I'd try to engage him in conversation. He was very warm, receptive, and I really enjoyed the conversations we had. He was a wonderful talent, and on the set, the epitome of a gentleman of the business. The joy he brought as a performer was matched by my joy for having met the man.
January 10, 2010
To Henry Gibson,
Watching you on Laugh-in was great. You made me laugh. Thanks for being such a wonderful comedian. I miss your sense of humor. Lisa Weiner.
January 9, 2010
To Henry Gibson,
I watched on Rowan and Martin's laugh-in and you made me laugh. I will always remember you Henry Gibson. Lisa Weiner
Carolyn Hoard
October 12, 2009
He was masterful in everyting he did. I enjoy watching and listening to him. He was a Joy.
SIR JOHN LOWDER
October 12, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
JOHN LOWDER
October 12, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Angela Butz
October 12, 2009
He was wonderful no matter the role. He will be greatly missed.
connie Martin Evans
October 12, 2009
While in the sixth grade as a child, our class was asked to perform a quick skit. My best freind Jan and I decided to mimick Henry Gibson and his large flower. We wrote a flower is a pretty thing it grows a lot in the spring but what does it bring? nothing. As we recited are verse our inter woven flower grew and was then tossed over our shoulder. Thank You Henry for the assistance in creating our skit. I love you and your humor, it will sorely be missed. To the family God bless each and every one of you to uphold him in the highest esteme and treasure your memories.
Jane Mitchell
October 10, 2009
He was wonderful in every show or movie. A joy to watch and laugh with.
You will be missed and forever loved!!!!! May all who are with you laugh as much there as they did here! RIP!!
Jane Mitchell
October 10, 2009
He was wonderful in every show or movie. A joy to watch and laugh with.
You will be missed and forever loved!!!!!
Penny Shaw
October 10, 2009
Thanks for bringing me laughter. I will remember you always
Sig Hess
October 10, 2009
A joy to watch. He was a great comedic actor. He will be missed by many.
Melanie Richard
October 10, 2009
Dear Loved Ones, If you've ever wondered how much celebrities are adored, you can be sure they are. James or our beloved "Henry Gibson" was hilarious. Recently when he starred in "Boston Legal", he was great. Of course Boston Legal must have a tremendous casting director, because all the cast is stellar.
We were sad this afternoon to learn of his passing, and thank you for sharing James with us for so many years! Love and Fond Memories to you from Mel and Dave, Class of 1975.
raymond girtman
October 10, 2009
bless YOU Henry Gibson for giving us happiness when we were sad in life,if there is a Heaven,on judgment day may you be allowed to enter so the angels make your life new better.I loved your type of Humor.
October 10, 2009
Mr Gibson was a laugh out loud, tears in your eyes funny man. For the joy he brought to others take comfort in your personal memories and comfort in God's words like the promise at Acts 24:15. L. Franklin (Georgia)
Susann Deloatch
October 9, 2009
This man was so funny on Tv. I loved to watch him. Thank you Henry. RIP.
Laurie Todd
October 9, 2009
Enjoyed Mr. Gibson's work, especially on Boston Legal. Always, always made me laugh!
October 8, 2009
Dear Ones, Better to leave 'em laughing, than in tears. God rest you, Henry Ibsen, uh, I mean, Gibson. Keep 'em smilin', you lovely man. signed, Robin, of the Bitterroot
T Jackowski
October 8, 2009
The Flower
Karen Frisch
October 8, 2009
Henry,
Thank you for allowing me to laugh and smile. You will be remembered fondly.
Ivie Nance
October 8, 2009
Henry Gibson was a joy to watch. He always made me laugh and his offbeat poetry on Laugh-in was my favorite on that show. He will be forever missed.
Jeffrey LaRocque
October 8, 2009
I remembered when he played the head nazi in the blues brothers
Cynthia Naquin
October 8, 2009
RIP Mr.Gibson. I was a child in the 60's and 70's. I loved you in Laugh-in and in everything you were a part of. You made us laugh until we cried. You will be missed.
Trish Gray
October 8, 2009
I was delighted to see him on Boston Legal! I will have to watch the movie Nashville again just to see him and, of course, I still smile when I think about him on Laugh-In.
October 8, 2009
Thank you Henry Gibson for all the joy you brought to me and my family. Just the mention of his name brings a smile to all that loved him. God Bless you.
Leah (Chicago)
Marsha Matthews
October 8, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
October 7, 2009
Marshall McLuhan, whacha doin’?
October 7, 2009
He always made me laugh. But my sweetest memory of Henry Gibson was when he would welcome "pretty, perky, Peggy King" to sing on his weekly TV show!
Melissa Webb
October 6, 2009
But what about the buffalo? Love you, Henry.
Tina Pfuhl
October 6, 2009
He made me laugh watching Laugh-In all the way through to Boston Legal. What a talent that will be greatly missed. God bless you Henry and your family.
C. Foss
October 6, 2009
My wife, daughter, sister and I met Henry and his wife, oddly enough, in St. Peter's Basilica in Rome in 2007. We had a great chat and they were lovely people. I always loved his work from Laugh-In and beyond. My best to his family.
David Wedig
October 6, 2009
I thought Henry was one of the funniest people alive. I even wrote him in for presidency. Please rest in peace.
Larry Johnston
October 5, 2009
A truly brilliant man. He made me laugh.
Eddie Morquecho
October 5, 2009
He made me laugh....He will be sorely missed. I was a big fan of his comedic talent.
Larry Alltop
October 5, 2009
I always loved your quiet stylish humor. Even a slow change of facial expression would always bring joy and laughter. I will always remember you. God Bless You and yours.
Betty Jo B
October 5, 2009
Loved him in everything he did. Laugh In was the first time aI saw him and he made it fun and that is what I feel he wanted. To make us Laugh. You are Missed Mr. Gibson. *** bettjo B.
Maureen Shafer
October 4, 2009
Henry, you still bring a smile to my face, just as you did on Laugh In. God Bless you and your family.You will be truly missed.
October 4, 2009
Thanks for the laughs!
dan dugan
October 4, 2009
good night henry.....god bless
Dennis Higdon
October 3, 2009
God blessed us with you. You've given the world a wonderful gift, the gift of sharing yourself with us. Thank-You!! The celestial stage now has a new and wonderful star within it's play bill. Our preyers are for you and your family!
Helen Young
October 3, 2009
Condolences to family and close friends of Henry Gibson. I am just another fan who watched Laugh In as a young teenager and the memories of H.G. make me smile. For me his last memorable performance as an actor was in the movie, Magnolia, which will always be one of my favorites. He portrayed the wealthy man in the bar scene with William H. Macy with true talent. God Bless.
Tonya Smith
October 3, 2009
Thank you Henry. Rest well.
Rosa Harshaw
October 2, 2009
Henry,
Thanks for the many laughs. Rest in peace.
I will keep your family in my prayers.
Jon Lowder
October 2, 2009
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009
ROZ GASKIN
October 2, 2009
HENRY,
WHAT MEMORIES YOUR FACE BRINGS BACK.I GREW UP
WATCHING LAUGH IN.IT WAS 1 OF 2 PROGRAMS WE WERE ALLOWED TO STAY UP AND WATCH.AND THE VERY BEST THING WAS ,IT WAS THE ONLY TIME I HEARD MY FATHER LAUGH OUT LOUD.
PEACE BE WITH YOUR FAMILY,IM NOT WORRIED ABOUT HENRY,HES ALREADY WITH THE ANGELS!
Clarence/Margo Hall
October 1, 2009
Thanks for the wonderful works you did. Laugh-In was a trip and a wonderful one at that. You made such an impact on the show.
Will be praying for the comfort of your family during this time
Cindy M.
October 1, 2009
What wonderful memories he has bestowed on us. I grew up watching Laugh In. We have lost a true icon of comedy.
Ella Mills
October 1, 2009
Will miss Henry as part of the era I grew in (70's). Never another like him.
Jill Jensen
September 30, 2009
He was always a favorite. Rest in peace, Henry.
gary davis
September 30, 2009
i remember sitting and laughing with my dad at his laugh in skits,,rest in peace
September 29, 2009
Dear Henry: I really enjoyed your performances on Laugh-In, many, many years ago. Since then I have had the pleasure of knowing your sister, Sally, and your nephew, Peter. Now you are all together in heaven. May God bless you all! Catherine DiMarco
JON LOWDER
September 29, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
September 29, 2009
Your voice will always be remembered
john warnett
September 29, 2009
Henry, the world over....including Down-under, you will always be remembered as a comic genius.....'very interesting', will go down in the vocablurary (?) as truly yours !!
Luv ya baby.....tvjohn
Carol Peterson
September 28, 2009
I learned to laugh at myself and the world with Henry & the other Laugh-In crowd. What wonderful memories : )
Lisa Nickerson
September 28, 2009
Dear Gibson Family,
May you all know that you are in my thoughts and prayers at this time of loss. May Henry RIP. I will miss him, he made me laugh and smile. You had a very talented Dad. You must be real proud of him. But know he can make everyone in Heave laugh now. God bless you all.
Charles H. Miranda
September 28, 2009
=======================================
Follow The Rainbow To Heaven.
=======================================
A Soldier had die out on the
battlefield;
Broken hearts are weeping For
Them,
But take comfort of knowing
that God had sent Them a
rainbow from heaven;
The Souls of the Soldiers
have gone to there home
in heaven,
Our Loved One's has follow
God's lovely rainbow in the
sky;
All the way to the end of the
sky.
That leads all the way to the
other end of the Lord's
house in heaven,
So just keep on praying and
trust that God will send us
that same rainbow in the sky;
Where Our Loved One's are
waiting For You and For Me at
the end of the rainbow in
heaven.
=======================================
Do A Web Search On:
Charles H. Miranda -- Or.
charlesthepoet2003
============================
Nancy Jones
September 28, 2009
Henry...thank you for the smiles, the laughs and the memories.
September 28, 2009
His performances made me smile, made me laugh.....now all Heaven will be his audience! ..........."A poem, by Henry.............."Tommy Howell Clementon, NJ
Jacqueline Howse
September 27, 2009
To the family of Mr. Henry Gibson:
I am sorry for your loss. Mr. Gibson was a true talent. May God ever bless and keep you safe in his loving arms.
Pastor Stephanie Law-Tyson
September 27, 2009
I just want too.say Henry will be miss
to those in Malibu may God Bless his Family from
Jane Williams
September 27, 2009
What a lovely persona the character of Henry Gibson represented. One knew, when he saw Mr.Gibson on screen, television or movie, that his character would be convincing and enjoyable to watch. What a talent, and what an piece of history he occupied. Those of us watching his performances were fortune to have that opportunity. My condolences to Mr.Gibson's family.
Ainsley Jo Phillips
September 27, 2009
I used to have such a crush on him when he was on Laugh-In. How could I resist crushing on such a sensitive-looking guy reciting poetry (satirical or not) while clutching a flower!?! Thanks for the memories!
A. Stanley
September 26, 2009
Everyone who was in front of a TV in the 1960s loved "LAUGH-IN" and adored all the marvelous
talents showcased there. I join the countless fans
of this gifted gentlema, in extending sympathies
to his beloved family and friends. May you all find
- upon his passing - a renewed understanding
and peace...
September 26, 2009
"Very interesting.....but stupid"
Rest in peace Henry.
Marguerite Dawson
September 26, 2009
Thank you, Henry Gibson, for all the wonderful humor. You were truly a bright light that made the country laugh when we needed it most. I was happy to see you again on Boston Legal - you were a funny, charming man with loads of talent. You won't be forgotten... a big fan.
September 26, 2009
to the Henry Gibson family, my condolences and prayers are with at this time of sorrow. I will miss him and I do remember his character on laugh-in. afain may God comfort you all. a television fan.clara williams, houston,texas
The Coffey's
September 26, 2009
To the Family of Henry Gibson:
Death leaves a heartache only God can heal, Love leaves behind memories no one can heal. Our memories of Henry Gibson will bring a smile. At John 17:3 God promises everlasting life if we take in knowledge of HIM. Imagine meeting Henry sometime in the future when we are all well and healthy. My prayers are with you.
September 26, 2009
September 26,2009
I remember him and my prayers and condolences are with you all. His way of acting was hilarious. God be with you all. clara williams,houston,tx
Marcella Rheaume
September 26, 2009
You wonderful humor helped me and my family through very difficult times.
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family and loved ones.
Tami W
September 26, 2009
We will miss you ! my thoughts and Prayers are with you all
anna makin
September 26, 2009
rip mr very interesting
Patty Freed
September 26, 2009
He had a special presentation of his humor,unique, unlike any other, he will be missed.
Mourning Fans
September 26, 2009
The world has lost another entertainer worthy of being watched during family tv time. His humor delighted many of us as we grew up, and he will be missed by all whose lives he touched.
Not only will Mr. Gibson be in our memories, but more importantly he is in God's memory until all those are called back to life. It will be at this time that he will have the wonderful opportunity to enjoy endless life on a paradise earth.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this sad time.
Take Care,
The Lewis family
September 26, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers to the family of Mr Gibson, he has touched many lives no doubt and will always be remebered with a great deal of respect. May you all find comfort in the God of all comfort.
(2Corinthians 1:3.4)
Nereida Heath
September 25, 2009
Henry, We will miss you so much. Your generosity, your laughter, your sweet gifts, the care you gave to me and so many others. You are truly one of my favoite customers! Rest in peace Henry, and "Nam Myoho Renge Kyo" We love you. Nereida & the MMBSC Family Malibu.. :-)
Mary James
September 25, 2009
I use to love watching this man on the laugh in show.
Sue Harris
September 25, 2009
I watched you for years. Loved your humor.
jose olivas
September 25, 2009
rest in peace after a job well done of entertaining millions of people everywhere
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