Gloria Jean Gibbons, 72, passed away Thursday, May 22, 2008, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. She was born March 26, 1936 in Summerton, South Carolina to the late Marie and Stephen Leon Dyson. Surviving are her husband of 55 years, Dr. Carlos Wilbur Gibbons, their three children, Carlos, Jr., Leeza and Cammy, Carlos Jr.‘s wife, Anne Marie, and six grandchildren, Lexi, Troy, Nathan, Taylor, Kelly and Blake. She is also survived by her sister Mrs. Wayne Wells of Sumter and extended family.

Jean was a wonderful, loving mother and friend who always had an open door for those in need. She loved reading, gardening and, most of all, dancing. Her kind, creative and energetic spirit enriched the lives of all who knew her.

A strong, Southern woman, Jean bravely insisted that her story be told and used to educate others facing memory diseases, resulting in the formation of The Leeza Gibbons Memory Foundation in her honor. Inspired by her example the Foundation is currently serving hundreds of thousands of caregivers around the country. Through her courage, scores of others are finding courage of their own to go forward in their lives; to be educated, empowered and energized. She leaves a legacy of love and an energy of change.

The family would like to express their gratitude and appreciation to the nurses and staff at Lowman Home for their constant care, attention and dedication to Jean.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Leeza Gibbons Memory Foundation, 3050 Biscayne Blvd suite 605 Miami , FL 33137 or your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter.

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