Stephen Mark Gibson, 76, passed away on February 2, 2026, in his home, surrounded by his loved ones, in
Fernandina Beach, Florida. He was born on October 10, 1949, at Gibson General Hospital in Princeton, Gibson County, Indiana. Steve was the eldest of 6 sons. He was predeceased by his parents, Wilford L Gibson and Patricia E. Hess Dressler, and his brother David M. Gibson (Karen). He grew up in
Lawrenceville, Il and was the wrestling champion at Lawrenceville High School. He married his wife, Patricia E. Cody, whom he affectionately called his "Dream Girl," on January 1, 2011, in McKinney, Texas. They were inseparable for 18 years.
Steve graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Psychology and Sociology. He spent his early career in the Produce Industry as an owner and executive manager of multiple companies, overseeing the operations of produce imports from Mexico. In midlife, he reinvented himself and started a successful career as a Real Estate Broker specializing in the New Home Building market. Steve was an extremely talented craftsman. He was adept at carpentry, tile, and brickwork, and he enjoyed renovating homes. He was a consummate outdoorsman who loved being one with nature. Whether hiking in the mountains, playing golf, or surfing in the ocean, nature captured the essence of his soul. He was an avid gardener who loved to tend to his landscape and plants. Upon retiring, Steve and Patti built their home in
Fernandina Beach, FL.
Above all, Steve was a musician to his core. From his rock band in high school and throughout his life, music was his passion. He played guitar, drums, piano, and sang. Jazz, Classical, Rock, Latin, he loved and indulged in all genres. He built a music "Listening" room in his Fernandina Beach home devoted to his favorite pastime, and spent many hours filling their home with music.
Most recently, Steve discovered a new interest and skill in Painting. He enjoyed acrylics, watercolors, and sketching, and he would meet weekly with fellow artists in his Amelia Island art group.
Steve is survived by his beloved wife Patricia E. Gibson, his children Courtney A. Percival (Shane) of Denver, CO, Sara E. Nabb (Josh) of Magnolia, TX, stepchildren Julia M. Cusano (fiancé, Kevin) of
Fernandina Beach, FL, and Matthew A. Cusano of
Fernandina Beach, FL, his brothers James W. (Mindy) of Cape Coral, FL, John P. of Burbank, CA, Bradley K. (Shari) of Scottsdale, AZ, Philip A (Pamela) of Phoenix, AZ, and Will C. (Dedra) of
Lawrenceville, IL, as well as his precious grandchildren: Henry, Everett, Claire, Nora, David, and Daniel. Additionally, he has many nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends who love him. Funeral services at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Fernandina Beach and a Celebration of Life will be announced in the future.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Nassau County Council on Aging, at
www.nassaucountycoa.org, "dedicate this donation to tribute": Stephen M. Gibson.
Please share your memories and condolences at
www.oxleyheard.comPublished by News Leader from Feb. 13 to Feb. 27, 2026.