Billy Howard Gibson

Bill Gibson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, administrator and pastor was born in Shawnee, OK to Elmer and Annie Gibson. He graduated from Shawnee High School and then attended Oklahoma Baptist University where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1958. He then moved to California to work in education. He was a 5th grade teacher at Munsey and Roosevelt Elementary Schools from 1958-1963. Then from 1963-1969, he taught History and Geography at Curran Junior High as well as working with the Math and Mentally Gifted Program. From 1969-1974, he continued to work for the Bakersfield City School District as a Program Writer and Assistant Director of Compensatory Education. From 1974-1979 he served as principal for Washington Jr. High and Franklin Elementary School. For the next 11 years he faithfully served as Superintendent for the Fairfax School District. Dr. Gibson finished the last 5 years of his career as the Assistant Superintendent for the Arvin Elementary School District where he retired in 1996.

Even while working, Bill continued his education. In 1976 he acquired a Master of Arts in Education Administration from California Lutheran College and then in 1982 he received his Doctorate in Education Administration from the University of Southern California. He also studied at the Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary. In addition to working in Education, Bill served as a Pastor at a few different churches and continued to teach Sunday School and serve as a substitute preacher whenever called upon at the Living Hope Baptist Church where he was a long time member and church leader. Bill’s infectious smile and gregarious nature will be missed by all who knew him. Well done, good and faithful servant.

A graveside service for Billy will be held Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 12:30 PM at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary, 9101 Kern Canyon Road, Bakersfield, California 93306.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hillcrestmemorial.com for the Gibson family.