Donald (Donnie) Gibson was born in Watertown, CT, the son of the late Irene Hallaway Gibson and Lee Woods Gibson. He was predeceased by his brother Horace (Gib) Gibson, his wife Joy Gibson and his brother in-law Roy Young. He is survived by his loving sister Amy Gibson Young and several nieces and nephews; Donna Gibson Erickson, Barbara Gibson Valenti, Scott Gibson, Richard Young and their respective families. Donnie resided in Watertown with his family prior to his 18th birthday. While living at home, He loved helping to raise rabbits, spending time with his brother working on cars, and visiting his Aunt and Uncle June and John Hallaway at their farm in Bethlehem, Ct. His sister Amy was like a second mother to him as she provided care for him when their mother had to work. Amy and Donnie had a very special bond and always remained close. He referred to her as "Ister Amy" and loved to tease her about her old car and she, him about the "vacuum". Donnie also leaves behind his best friend and buddy of almost 74 years, Belton (Sunshine) Anturm. Sunshine moved to Southbury Training School shortly after Donnie and they became best friends almost instantly, their relationship was symbiotic, where one struggled the other helped, together they found a way to get things done. As the years passed they looked out for each other, rarely being separated. Where one was the other wasn't far. It is rare to find such a deep friendship between two people that last a life time.
Donnie resided at Southbury Training school since May 21, 1941.He enjoyed life to the utmost due to the love, care, and compassion of all of the staff that knew and worked with him. Donnie was always happy and quick with a big smile and infectious laugh. He was fortunate to have enjoyed so many outings, including participating in Special Olympics, camping, and attending Cook School. In later years he attended daily programs at Community Resource Inc. We want to thank the staff of Cottage 36 and Cottage 15 for their excellent care and friendship they gave to Donnie throughout his life. School was his home and he loved living there. Many people that suffer from mental and physical disabilities do not get to live as long and as happy a life as Donnie. His life was only possible because of the wonderful, compassionate, and caring people that work at Southbury Training School and the mission and vision that is the embodiment of STS. They believe that all should be treated with respect and dignity and be given an opportunity to develop, grow, and be happy. Donnie was truly blessed.

Cemetery: Bethlehem Cemetery

Location: Munson-Lovetere Southbury

Services: A graveside service will be held Friday July 17, 2015 at 10 am at the Bethlehem Cemetery with a celebration of life to follow at the Training School in Cottage # 15.