Woodrow "Woody" Gibson

Woodrow "Woody" Gibson, 84, of New Castle, passed away peacefully at his residence on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025. Born on April 8, 1941, in Somerset, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Otis and Lula (Jones) Gibson.

Woody valued family above all. He kept up with every grandchild, always knowing exactly what they were doing and cheering them on in his own unique way. Independent to his core, he had a dry sense of humor, didn't care much for talking on the phone, and could often be found watching classic television, especially cowboy movies and shows that had been on the air for fifty years or more. Thanksgiving held a special place in his heart; he was always the first to arrive, ready to help and happy just to be present.

Woody was a man of strong character, sharp wit, and deep loyalty. A lifelong NASCAR enthusiast and devoted Dale Earnhardt fan, he loved the excitement of the track almost as much as he loved the quiet moments spent outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, riding horses, and deer hunting, and he always found joy in the simple things.

A respected craftsman, Woody was the co-owner of G & H Drywall alongside his best friend and business partner, Jack Horton. Together, they completed 200–300 homes per year, managing multiple crews with high standards and earning the respect of builders and workers alike. Woody was a perfectionist in his trade and took great pride in every project.

He was also a fighter, stronger than most knew, surviving cancer five times with courage and determination.

Woody is survived by his three daughters, Debby (husband: Charles) Vannoy of Smyrna, TN, Wendy Padgett of New Castle and Kristy (husband: Doug) Allen of New Castle; a son, Woody Aron (wife: Krista) Gibson of New Castle; 12 grandchildren, Ashley and Haley Padgett; Jordan (wife: Rachel), Drew and Morgan Vannoy, Jacob (wife: Gabby), Isaac (wife: Lacy), Jesse, Abby (significant other: Dylan Gorman) Allen; Presley, Rozlynn and Sawyer Gibson; thirteen great-grandchildren; two brothers, Delbert "Cotton" (wife: Kay) Gibson of MN and Richard (wife: Beth) Gibson of FL; uncle, Tommy (wife: Marty) Jones of New Castle; several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Woody was preceded in death by his wife, Hazel Gibson; best friend and son-in-law, Brad Padgett; siblings, Ann, Jeanie and Gary.

Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., on Friday, Dec. 12 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle. A graveside service will follow at 1:30 p.m., at South Mound Cemetery-West Lawn Addition. Memorial contributions may be given in Woody's honor to the Eagles Auxiliary. You may express condolences or share memories of Woody at www.hinsey -brown.com.