James Gibson
James “Jim” Lewis Gibson, 65, of Madison, died May 24, 2008.
Jim was born to James Gibson and Martha Mize Warren Gibson on June 23, 1942, in Connersvllle, Ind. After graduating from Connersville High School, he attended Earlham College in Richmond, Ind., and later received a degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind. He would go on to retire from the Ford Motor Co. in Connersville after 34 years of service. Jim loved the outdoors and was an avid golfer and fisherman. He also loved blues and jazz music. He was active in the community, volunteering with Kiwanis International, Sundowner’s Chapter, and as a member of the Jaycees in Connersville. He was also a member of the Esquire’s Club in Richmond. Jim accepted Christ at a young age at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Connersville. He later joined New Life United Methodist Church, also in Connersville. At New Life, he served as a trustee and chairman of the building program and was instrumental in planning and building the new church. After moving to Huntsville, Jim came out of retirement to work as executive vice president of Thomas Technology, Inc., and Vice President Manufacturing of Campbell Engineering Aircraft. From 2000-2001, he served as president of the North Alabama African-American Chamber of Commerce. He was also invited to join the Greater Huntsville Chapter of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc., and was a member of their board of directors. In 2005, he was honored with the Mentor of the Year Award. Jim and his wife Rena settled in Madison and joined New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church in May 2003. At New Jerusalem, he served as finance chairman from 2004 to 2007, and from 2004 as vice chairman of trustees.
