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JAMES GIBSON Obituary
JAMES EDWARD GIBSON
Died unexpectedly on Saturday, July 29, 2017. Born on January 13, 1949 in Northfield Vermont, he was the second son of the late John Golden Gibson and Laura (Babic) Gibson. He is survived by his beloved wife of 25 years, Dana (Goldthorp) Gibson; his son James Tucker Gibson; his older brother John A. Gibson of Potomac, MD; his twin Dr. Robert S. Gibson of Charlottesville, VA; and many loving nieces, nephews and other family members. Jim received undergraduate degrees, with honors, from Wesley College and the American University. He began his career in residential real estate sales, while earning his J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center. In 1981, he founded Gibson Builders and over the next three decades transformed it into one the premier custom home building companies in the DC Metropolitan Area. Known for his characteristic wit, Jim exuded life and enriched the lives of those who knew him. His peers admired and respected the quality of his work and the standards with which he transformed dreams into reality. Jim believed in the joy and necessity of humor. He was a kind soul, full of life and love for his family and friends. He was fair and honest, and will be remembered as a gentle, moderate, self-effacing man of quiet integrity. Family and friends will celebrate Jim's life at Bethesda country Club from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, August 6, 2017. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the National Alliance on Mental Illness or the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
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Memories and Condolences
for JAMES GIBSON
David J Friel
August 1, 2023
Jim was one of the most generous men I ever met. I miss you "cous."
Lyn Faulkner
July 30, 2022
Still think of him along with all our close friends from Wesley. He will always be a part of our memories.
Debi Carmel
July 27, 2021
Thinking of you of course. Love you Dana.
Debi Carmel
July 27, 2020
Jim we miss you so...love to Dana and Tucker
Lyn Faulkner
July 27, 2020
We had our 50th Wesley reunion just last year and everyone commented about how much we missed Jimmy, he was a vital and important presence at every reunion. He still comes to mind some days and I remember his quick wit and jokes, miss you Jimmy-Jet! Lyn
Linda Pence
April 12, 2018
Dana, i just learned today about Jim's death. I am stunned. We were such good friends when I lived in D.C. He built my house on Livingston St. We both loved playing poker and laughing. A year ago May I saw him for the first time in decades when he came to Indianapolis to sell a car. He hadn't changed a bit. He told me about his happy life with you and your children. It's hard to understand.
Stephen Banigan
September 7, 2017
Dear Dana,
I am so sorry for you and your family's loss. Jim enriched many lives and wonderful memories of him will endure.
Steve Banigan
Kristen, Blaise, Sloane, Hugh & Rory Meyer
August 19, 2017
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Bob Greacen
August 18, 2017
So sad to hear of Jim's Passing. We were neighbors in Merchantville, NJ, growing up in the late fifties and early sixties. Lots of fun, sports, and general mischief. Love to brothers John and Bob.
David Friel
August 17, 2017
Dana and Tucker,
I am deeply saddened to learn of Jim's death. Deb and I shall keep all the family in our thoughts and prayers. I hope that with the passage of time, the wonderful memories you shared will comfort you in this time of grief. I miss you, cous!
Mary Ann Bassignani
August 17, 2017
Dana, Tucker, Bob and Mary and John - I am so very sorry and heartbroken to learn of Jim's death. He was such a great cousin and will be missed by the whole extended family. My condolences and prayers to all of you.
August 14, 2017
Dana and Tucker: So sorry to hear about Jim's sudden passing and your loss. Enjoyed reconnecting with him before and during our 50th reunion in May. My wife and I had hoped to meet you at the reunion but Jim indicated the "girls" were staying in DC together. you are in our prayer. Reynolds and Cheryl Fisher.
Laura Emmett O'Connor
August 9, 2017
Dear Dana & Tucker -
I am so deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Jim was the most extraordinary and gifted businessman and a wonderful and generous friend and neighbor. Despite his busy schedule, he always had time to send my Dad's newspaper up the front steps. He will be so missed. Sending prayers of comfort & peace.
best wishes,
Laura Emmett O'Connor
August 9, 2017
Dana,
Jim was a very good man, and built the best homes bar none. Being an appraiser for 31 years in the DC. area, I valued numerous homes he built, including two of his own.
His ability to recreate unique perfection was always amazing to me. Still, his humility and sense of humor, made him very special. My heart goes out to you and your family.
Chris Connors, SRA
Alan Pollin
August 9, 2017
So very sorry for your loss
With my deepest sympathy
August 8, 2017
Dear Dana and Tucker, We want to extend our deepest sympathies. Jim was a great guy, funny and smart, and he was a true friend to us, always willing to offer valued advice and help. We will miss him very much. Our thoughts are with you and the rest of your family. Patrice and Marty Teckler
August 7, 2017
Although I never knew Jim personally, I admired his work and the love of detail and attention to gathering spaces in his homes. I am an architect and I appreciated the quality and beauty of the homes that he produced.
... Randy Steiner AIA
Barbara Gordon
August 7, 2017
We are lucky enough to live In a Jim Gibson house. We will always remember his smiling face. Our sincerest condolences.
Janelle Gaughan
August 7, 2017
Jim was among Janelle's first business clients back in our salad days. We will always remember him as a fixture on the steps of The Sign of the Whale, greeting everyone as they arrived, back when we were all single. He strove for excellence as the manager of the Tenley Snider Bros. office, was a dedicated realtor (seeing the potential in and selling us our first home). We watched as his tastes developed in staging the houses he beautifully renovated and marveled at his ability to move so frequently. We attended each other's weddings and when, as with many friendships our paths took us in different directions, he was a sentimental friend who never forgot to occasionally "check in". We are so saddened by your loss and extend our sincere condolences. John and Janelle Gaughan
Liz Robinson
August 7, 2017
I am sorry for your loss. Dana, you and your family, are in my thoughts and prayers.
Michael Papanicolas
August 6, 2017
Our deepest condolences to the family. Jim was a big part of our lives over the past 20 years and we are eternally grateful for the opportunities he provided for us.
With love,
Michael Papanicolas and Family
Steve Kupferberg
August 6, 2017
A friend & neighbor. Just ran into Jim and Dana driving by the old house on University Terrace last week. A terrible loss to all that knew him. My condolences to to Dana and the entire family. Steve Kupferberg
David Benson
August 6, 2017
Dear Dana and Family,
Jim was a great example to me when I was fresh out of college making my way into the construction industry. His care for detail helped me to know what was needed for high end in this industry. To me he was honorable and sincere and gave me a shot when he didn't have to. I will miss him tremendously. My sincere condolences to you and Tucker and the family. I pray that God will grant peace and comfort during this mourning time.
Frank LaPrade &Tamara Clarke
August 6, 2017
We were so saddened to hear about Jim. Although we only recently met Jim and you, Jim was clearly such a friendly, smart, and funny man. We are heartbroken for you and your family and you're in out thoughts and prayers.
Juliet Rodman
August 5, 2017
Dana,
My deepest sympathies to you and Tucker and your entire family. Jim was an amazing person who built amazing homes. His work ethic was unmatched. He was funny, gifted, talented and a detailed perfectionist. Going through his website shows the breath of architecture he was so willing and talented to create. Thinking of you and sending light.
XO Juliet
August 5, 2017
Dana and Tucker....We were so saddened to hear of Jim's sudden passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of unimaginable loss.
With warmest regards,
- Lucretia and Bob Risoleo
Jack Koson
August 5, 2017
I had the great privilege of having Jim as my best friend and business partner for our first 15 years out of college. Jim taught me much, his drive and energy inspired me. His wit kept me in constant laughter. He taught me to ski which led to my move out west. His daily presence in my life after that was much missed. No one has had a greater influence on my life than Jim. I loved him like a brother. There is now a hole in my heart and the world feels more empty without him. My thoughts are with Dana, Tucker and all of you who loved him.
Tim Carroll
August 4, 2017
Dana. The Carroll family of Tim, Robin and Sandy want to send our condolences to you and family. I pray the God of all comfort can be with you and Tucker. My Mom, DJ thought the world of Jim and the unselfish kindness he extended to her for years. He will be missed.
Boris Velic
August 4, 2017
Dear Mrs. Gibson,
My wife and I met Jim only a few times but they were very important times in our lives that we will never forget.
We cannot agree more that he was fair and honest and a gentle man that exuded integrity. Although we did not meet again, he left a deep impression.
Please accept our sincere condolences.
Susan Bennett Witte
August 4, 2017
To Jim's family. So sorry for your loss . With deepest sympathy.
Suzyb
Ken Tolson
August 4, 2017
Dana,
You have my deepest sympathy for your family's loss. Jim was great guy and awesome builder. He enriched my life and taught me so much about the art of building a quality home. the DMV will miss him greatly!!
Marc Berman
August 4, 2017
Dana,
I was shocked and saddened to hear about Jim. He was a great guy and I had a great deal of respect for him personally and professionally as well.
Craig and Denise Pernick
August 3, 2017
Dana, we are so saddened by your loss. Our deepest condolences to you and your family.
Jim Sweeney
August 3, 2017
Dana,
Jim was a good friend and we enjoyed fun times together. I have many fond memories of Jim and our times at Wesley college and after. His obituary describes Jim extremely well. This has to be hard for you and your son. My payers are with you. God Bless
August 3, 2017
Jim will be missed by so many people that he inspired with his vision. There are a lot of people out here in the building trades that owe a debt of gratitude to him. I am one. So sorry for Dana and Tucker , you are in my prayers.
Anne Overton
Scott Ritter
August 3, 2017
The Washington DC housing market has lost a legend and a very dear man. Residents of Northwest DC know widely what quality, love, and care is involved when a home is described as a "Jim Gibson House". I only worked with Jim briefly and it was several years ago, yet his passion for and mastery of his craft and his joy in fully engaging all people involved were unique and fun to be a part of. Dana, the way you and Jim have shared your homes with so many of us has made D.C. more neighborly and familiar. Thank you and may God Bless your family as you remember Jim's exceptional life.
Susie Canton
August 3, 2017
Dana, your Jim was somebody who always made us feel better after being with him. His beautiful marriage, son and brilliant business that made so many families happy, will be a legacy that inspires us and will be remembered. Lots of love, Susie
Sharon Easterliing Tyszka
August 3, 2017
I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Jimmy. I was blessed to go to Merchantville High School with Jimmy and we became good friends. Jim had the most fun loving personality and such a great sense of humor. Although I was not able to make the class reunion it sounded like he was the same great guy we all loved. My deepest sympathy and prayers to all of his family. May his memories live on forever in your hearts.
Mike Smith
August 3, 2017
Dana, I am so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He was a great guy who I befriended in the 80's. As a fellow builder he helped me out on a number of projects. We had too much fun in numerous golf outings at BCC. I will miss him. You and Tucker are in my thoughts and prayers
Susan Traver
August 3, 2017
Dana and Tucker,
We are so shocked and saddened to hear of Jim's passing. He built us a beautiful home and of course, we treasured knowing each of you. Lots of love, Susan Traver and family
Lyn Faulkner
August 2, 2017
His caring and loving friends from Wesley send our deepest sympathy and prayers to you, Dana and Tucker. We so enjoyed our reunions. Jim always put the extra effort in to keep us together through the years. He will be remembered in our hearts.
Michael Kyriacou
August 2, 2017
I had the privilege to work with Jim on his superior custom homes. He was an honorable man and an exemplary professional. I will greatly miss him. My deepest condolences to the Gibson family.
Andi and Larry Gibbons
August 2, 2017
He made our dreams come true and enriched our life
Lizzie B
August 2, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with the Gibson family. Jim was a wonderful man and he will be missed.
August 2, 2017
We are so grateful to Jim, who built our beautiful home, in which we enjoyed raising our family and hosting countless family and friend events. Through this, Jim displayed his creativity, humor, honesty, kindness and professionalism.
Our heartfelt condolences to you, Dana and Tucker, and all the Gibson family.
The Stuart Pape Family
Claudia Coonrod Barnett
August 2, 2017
I am so sorry to hear of Jim's passing, Dana. I remember when you first started dating Jim. I always admired his skill and personality. My heart goes out to you and Tucker.
David Ford
August 2, 2017
I had the good fortune to work with Jim for over 15 years building some of the finest houses in the DMV. He was highly respected in the industry and will be missed. May he rest in peace. My condolences to Dana and Tucker.
Patricia Mc Devitt Speer
August 2, 2017
Dana and Tucker, I never met you, but I wanted to send you my love and prayers in this message box. I went with Jimmy in high school and thought he was a great guy. At the class reunion, he proudly showed me a picture of you and your son and was very proud. He will be missed by his high school classmates Class of 1967 for who he was as a person. God be with you both during this time and may He flood you with great memories. Love, Patty Mc Devitt Speer
mike magruder
August 2, 2017
Jim was a mentor and friend, I will miss him very much.
August 2, 2017
Our sincere and deepest condolences to the Gibson family on the loss of your loved one. Please know those we love remain with us for love itself lives on, and cherished memories never fade because a loved one's gone. Those we love can never be more than a thought apart, for as long as there is memory, they'll live on in the heart. May the God of comfort sustain you during your grieving process.
Wayne Griffith
August 2, 2017
I am stunned and saddened by Jim's death. I now treasure all the more getting to see him at our 50th high school reunion in May. He was the same irrepressible and entertaining guy that I knew a half century ago at Merchantville High. Condolences and best wishes to the Gibson clan.
August 2, 2017
Jim was our real estate agent in 1975 chauffeuring my mom and me in his VW Beetle! Over the years we had a laugh or two about that! A lovely, kind, humorous and modest man- he will be missed.
Beverly Nadel
Erika White
August 2, 2017
Dana, You and Tucker are in my thoughts and prayers. I loved working with you and think of you all fondly. Sincere condolences. Erika White
Doug Roberts
August 2, 2017
So deeply saddened and numb over the loss of a stand up guy who portrayed great character and professionalism in all our years of working together. My deepest condolences to Dana, Tucker and extended family/friends during this difficult time.
Irene Koegel
August 2, 2017
Dana, So sorry to hear about Jim's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Tucker and your family and friends. Jim will be missed!
Mike Klisch
August 2, 2017
I really enjoyed my home building experience with Jim, and I am so glad we remained friends and stayed in touch over the last 15 years. I always admired Jim and considered him a good friend. Jim was always there to help me. My boys loved walking through your Newark street house while you built it. Thanks for everything. I miss you. Mike Klisch
Toby Wolf
August 2, 2017
Dana, So sorry to hear about Jim's passing. I feel blessed to have known him. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Tucker.
August 2, 2017
We're so sorry for your loss. Jim built a beautiful house for us. He was a true professional and a pleasure to work with.
We send our prayers and condolences.
~ Stephen Altschul and Caroline James
Karim Rahmoune
August 2, 2017
I had the privilege of knowing Jim as a person and as our builder. He was the best in both.
We will keep you in our heart and our toughts.
I am extremely sorry Dana and Tucker.
Sarah Funt
August 2, 2017
Jim was a class act!! He was without a doubt the finest custom home builder in the Washington DC metro area. He was fun, friendly and humble. It was a privilege to know him. He will be missed.
Sarah Funt
Lucinda treat
August 2, 2017
What devastating news and what a huge loss. Dana --- I am just so sorry.
You and Tucker are in my heart and my prayers.
Lucinda Treat
Ilene Ingber
August 2, 2017
In memory and in celebration of someone who made this world a brighter and better place....He will be forever missed. My deepest condolences To Dana, Tucker and all who had the privilege of loving Jim...
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