James David “Jim” Gibson, 73, of Lusby, formerly of Upper Marlboro died Jan. 13, 2013, at his residence.

He was born June 20, 1939, in Cleveland to the late David Gibson and Frances Legan Gibson.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He worked as an operating engineer for Union Local No. 99 for 40 years until his retirement in 1999. He was a very giving person and had a love for life. His world revolved around his grandson. He loved the water, boating and music. His family will remember him mostly for his exuberant personality and his ability to light up a room.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Elizabeth “Betty” Greenwell Gibson; son, Theodore Yates Jr. of Harwood; grandson, Petty Officer 1st class Theodore Yates III and his wife, Krista, of Great Lakes, Ill.; great-granddaughter, Carly Yates; sister, Carol and her husband, Tony Globelnick, of Englewood, Col.; brother, Keith and his wife, Debra Gibson, of Fla.; niece, Nikki and her husband, Gil Lizarraga, of Colorado; and other nieces, nephews, relatives and many friends.

Family received friends Jan. 18 at Rausch Funeral Home in Lusby, where a celebration of his life was held Jan. 19 with the Rev. Faith Lewis officiating.

Interment followed at Southern Memorial Gardens in Dunkirk.

Pallbearers were Theodore Yates Jr., Theodore Yates III, Buddy Greenwell, Tony Lomax, Chris Boyle and Brian Greenwell.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 11240 Waples Mill Road, Suite 402, Fairfax, VA 22030, or at www.alz.org.