Alma Jean Gibson

Alma Jean Gibson (Sears) passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, November 3, 2024. Known to her many friends and family simply as Jean, she was a beloved mother, Nana, and Gigi. Jean was known for her humor, story telling, sharp whit, and equally sharp tongue. She had the mouth of a well versed sailor, but also a huge heart of gold.
She was described by those that knew her as spunky, genuine, and one of a kind. Jean was as stubborn as a mule and lived life on her own terms. You either got on board with her plans, or moved out of her way. She was a proud life long resident of the south end of Louisville and being true to those roots, loved all things horse racing. One of her more notable moments was her claim to fame when she stared in her first ever television commercial for Little John's Derby City Jewelry. She got a huge kick from the notoriety that came with being recognized on tv.
Known for her love of the finer things in life, she favored fur coats, Lincoln Town cars, and all things "bling." She was an expert shopper and very fashionable. Over the years, she acquired an impressive collection of purses, shoes, clothes, and everything under the sun. So much so, that her family lovingly gave her the nickname of "Stuff." Jean always took pride in her appearance and usually had a purse and shoes to perfectly match every outfit. Described as glitzy, boujie, and fabulous, she always lived up to those names.
Jean loved her family fiercely, including her daughter Chiquata, granddaughters Shanita and Tiffany, grand son-in-law Joey, and great grandson Carter, often referring to them collectively as "my kids." She always took care to ensure all their needs were met and worried endlessly of their safety, especially when any of them were driving anywhere. She found an unexpected love of animals later in her life with her adopted stray cat Baby, and her dogs Dolly and Missy.
Over the years, she battled various health issues, including breast cancer, of which she was a 25 year survivor. Despite these set backs, she made it to 90, almost 91 years old by sheer grit and determination. Her last days were spent raising hell and being feisty at Valhalla Nursing Home where she kept the nurses laughing and on their toes with her and her neighbor Sylvia's mischievous antics.
Jean had an incredible love for life and will truly be missed by all those that knew and loved her.
A celebration of Jean's life will be planned for a later date, to be announced.