Ronald D. Gibson

On the morning of November 8, 2022, Ronald Dean “Hot Rod” Gibson of North Sewickley Twp passed away in Butler Memorial Hospital at the age of 80. 

Ron was born to Paul L. Gibson and Margaret A. Lento in New Brighton, PA on April 25, 1942. He graduated from Big Beaver Falls High School in 1961. On January 20, 1962, he married Millicent Virginia “Pat” Gibson and together raised three children, Scott Lemoyne (Stephanie), RJ, and April Moneè (Kwame Sr.). 

Ron served in the army for two tours for a total of nine years, over three of which he spent between Vietnam and Korea. He obtained a number of accolades including the National Defense Service Medal, 4 Overseas Service Bars, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Air Medal, Good Conduct Medal (Bronze Clasp–2 Loops), Expert Badge Rifle M16, Expert Badge Pistol Cal. 38, Sharpshooter Badge Rifle M14, Sharpshooter Badge Pistol Cal .45, Marksman Badge Carbine Rifle M1, and the Army Commendation Medal.

Outside of the service, Ron wore many hats–both literally and figuratively. A second-generation railroader, he started out working as a machinist for PennCentral, then spent time as a gang foreman and engine house foreman for Norfolk Southern; he also spent time as the local chairman for his machinist union. After 29 and a half years he retired due to medical reasons. He loved working on cars; he was a member of the National Street Rod Association, Three Rivers Camping Club, the Lion’s Club, a founding member of the Street Stalkers, Shelby-Mustang-Ford of NW PA, and co-founder of Community Youth Alliance in Beaver Falls, PA. He served as the head deacon of Bible Way COGIC. His favorite scripture was Proverbs 3:5-6.

Among his greatest joys was building and working on cars, a pastime through which he completed accomplishments such as a 1964 Falcon Drag Race Car, 1930 Model A Sedan, and 1968 Mustang California Special. He thoroughly enjoyed attending drag races and car cruises, namely the annual “guys’ trip” to Carlisle. Ron had fun camping, enjoying monthly outings with his camping club. He was extremely proud of all his grandchildren as well as the children at his church, always keeping up on their endeavors. From concerts, games, to races, to musicals, he did his best to show up for everybody and loved to brag about their abilities and accolades to any and everyone. His love for the young people showed through his giving, as he never hesitated to give the youth money for good grades and other accomplishments. His church family was very important to him, and Ron loved to spend time fellowshipping with them; he always looked forward to the Bible Way Men’s Retreat and enjoyed working with the men when he was able. Above all, he loved the Lord and reading his Bible. He even had a chair labeled “Ron’s chair” at work that was designated to reading during his free time.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; he is survived by his wife, Pat, siblings, Kenneth LeMoyne Gibson (Sonya), Kimberly Michelle Bell (Corey), Paulette A Potter (George), Shelly Lemoyne Helton, his three children, Scott, RJ, and April, his fifteen grandchildren: Cassandra, Kwame Jr., Kaleb, Kamel, Glory, Matthew, Lonniel, Kamille, Zachary, Donovan, Gabriel, Stephan, Abraham, Korey, and Colin, and great-granddaughter, June.

Viewing hours will be held from 3:00 to 6:00 PM on Sunday, November 13 at Bible Way Church Of God In Christ in New Castle, PA, with a memorial service following immediately afterwards. Additional viewing will commence at 9:00 AM on Monday, November 14 at Bible Way Church Of God In Christ, preceding the homegoing celebration at 10:00 AM.

Donations can be sent to Bible Way Church Of God In Christ at 125 North Crawford Ave New Castle, PA 16101 or sent via CashApp at $BWCOGIC125.

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