Sam Gibson passed away at his home on Aug. 22, 2025. He was born in Centralia to Lono and Lois Gibson.
Sam spent most of his childhood working on farms in Kent, where he developed a strong work ethic and built lifelong friendships. He graduated from Kent-Meridian High School in 1967 and went on to earn his associate degree from Green River College. For the next 15 years, he worked in the woods for Weyerhaeuser.
During that time, Sam met and married Cheryl. The couple settled in Adna, Washington, where they raised three daughters. He later became the custodian at Adna High School, a role that allowed him to spend more time with his family while keeping everyone who passed through the school’s doors in check.
Sam enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, playing softball, and singing along to his favorite tunes. After retiring, he and Cheryl traveled and explored together, creating many memories. Known for his stoic presence, Sam had a way of letting people know they were appreciated — a simple grunt from him meant you were well liked.
He was preceded in death by his father, Lono Gibson, and his wife, Cheryl Gibson (Stoddard). He is survived by his mother, Lois Gibson; daughters, Aimee Taylor (Eric), Katie Gibson (Frank), and Sarah Reid (Matt); and grandchildren, Tinley, Brody, Hawkins, and Flint. He will also be remembered by his brother and sisters, cousins, nieces and nephews, his softball family, friends, coworkers, students, and countless others.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. To honor his memory, Sam’s family encourages others to pick up after themselves on the Adna School District grounds and to spend time outdoors.
"Get out of the gym!" – Sam Gibson
