Luwillis Gibson

Luwillis “Skip” Gibson, age 74, of Grand Rapids passed away peacefully at Trinity Hospital on October 21, 2025 in Grand Rapids Michigan after a courageous battle with health challenges. Skip was a fighter and never gave up. He remained optimistic and tactfully in his right mind to the very end. Skip accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Savior in 2024.

Born on November 4, 1950 in Jackson Michigan, Skip was born and named after his late father and mother, Luwillis and Jennie Gibson. Skip an avid sports enthusiast earned All-American honors as a linebacker for Ottawa Hills High School in 1968, setting the tone for a lifetime of a competitive spirit. Skip briefly attended the University of Notre Dame but went on to attain a Bachelors of Science Degree in Psychology from Michigan State University.  

Skip enjoyed helping others and dedicated himself wholeheartedly to providing services as a therapist for individuals facing substance use and mental health challenges, working with tireless devotion and compassion. He served at Cristo Rey Community Service in Lansing Michigan, and at Sparrow Hospital, later bringing his expertise to substance abuse facilities in Traverse City. Skip returned to Grand Rapids Michigan and continued his great work servicing others at Genesis Place where he retired in 2023.

Beyond Skip’s professional life, he remained fiercely active and excelled in tennis, golf, baseball, racquetball, softball, bowling, fishing, and watching his favorite college football team Michigan State. In addition, Skip had a passion for archery and biking.

Photography held a special place in Skip’s heart. Behind the lens, Skip discovered his own form of therapy- capturing moments that brought smiles to friends, family, and even strangers. Skip held on to his beloved 35mm film cameras for as long as he could until COVID; transitioning to the digital world kicking and screaming all the way! Each photograph whether it was from weddings, reunions, ceremonies, and corporate events was a testament to Skip’s ability to see and celebrate the beauty in everyday moments. Skip also had an impressive collection of brim hats and baseball caps along with a sharp sense of fashion and swag.

Family was the cornerstone of Skip’s life. He was the driving force behind every family gathering, organizing cookouts, fish frys, and barbecues that created lasting memories and strengthened family bonds. Skip even had his own studio, a testament to his dedication and craft. Skip’s legacy and love will continue to live in the hearts of those who knew him.

Skip is preceded in death by his parents Luwillis and Jennie Gibson, brother Hershel Gibson, nieces Zena Gibson and Yvette Gibson and great niece Alexis Edwards.

Skip is survived by his beloved daughters: Tracy (Rufus) Clark and Aubri Anderson; siblings Yvonne Terrell, Donna Gibson, Deborah Gibson, Trina Gibson, and Darryl (Nelly) Gibson. Skip was a proud grandad to Tania Sanders, Javo’n Sanders, Kylan Bryant, Nayali Austin, and Jahann Austin; he cherished his special nephew/brother Jason (Alisha) Gibson, nephew Courtney Gibson, and niece Jessica Toro; special niece Niambi Gibson, and niece Jeannene Edwards; great nieces and nephews Kendra Gibson, Tara Gibson, Devon Gibson, Megan Gibson, Amani Gibsom, and Jalynn (Lance) Braid. His loving fiancé Beverly Harris and special daughter Lynnell Talbert; special cousins Grady Walker and Andrea (Anthony) Parker. A host of uncles, aunts, cousins, friends, co-workers, staff and residents from Genesis Place.

A memorial service will be held at 2pm on Friday, October 31, 2025 at Memorial Alternatives located at 2432 Fuller Ave. Grand Rapids MI 49505, with visitation will be one hour prior to service.

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