With heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of Andrea Jean Gibson on July 22, 2026. Andrea was born to LaVerne Crafton and Audrey (Rufi) LaBorde January 13, 1958, in Freeport, IL.

Andrea found the love of her life in 8th grade in Orangeville, IL. She later married her high school sweetheart, Michael W. Gibson, on November 18, 1978, sharing nearly forty-eight wonderful years of marriage together.

They lived in Rock City, IL, where they raised two amazing children, Danielle (Jon) Bauer and Derek (Cariee) Gibson. She was a cherished “Nana” to four grandchildren, Mikenna and Aubrey Bauer and Ayva and Nora Gibson.

She was a beloved sister to Diane (Wayne) Phillips; Linnet (Scott Smith) Hawthorne; Adrienne (Michael) Abramovich; and Scarlet (David) Leverton. She was also a dear sister-in-law to Donna Post.

She will be lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews, including Kristen (Mario) Aguirre, Kara Dummer, Kiley (David) Yates, Korey (Christie Gaskill) Phillips, Tamsy Leverton, Teegan Leverton, Keith (Amanda) George, Korey George, Heather Valverde, Mike Abramovich, Chris Griesbach, Sunshine Lehmann, Misty Lehmann, Martin Lehmann, and Donald Stoney. She is also survived by her cousin, Anita White, who held a special place in her heart, along with many other cherished relatives and friends. She treasured the love of her great-nieces and great-nephews and the memories they shared together.

She was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents, Roy and Onetta Rufi; sister, Laura Harris; sisters-in-law, Rosemary and Tammy; and niece, Jessica Love.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures and treasured every moment spent with those she loved. After moving to their lake home in Merrimac, WI, she embraced “lake life” and looked forward to hosting the annual Fourth of July gatherings. Whether traveling to new places, taking scenic car rides, casting a line while fishing, enjoying peaceful days boating on the lake, or gathering with friends for card club, she embraced every opportunity to create lasting memories.

Nothing brought her greater happiness than spending time with her family. Being “Nana” to her four grandchildren was one of Andrea’s favorite roles. She rarely missed a concert, musical, or sporting event and loved being there to cheer them on. She celebrated every milestone—big or small—and was their biggest fan.

Her career reflected the same compassion that defined her personal life. She dedicated herself to working with children with special needs, where her kindness, patience, and gentle spirit made a meaningful difference in the lives of countless children and their families. She approached every child with empathy, encouragement, and unwavering care, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She will be remembered for her generous heart, unwavering devotion to her family, and her ability to make everyone around her feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Her warmth, quiet strength, and selfless nature touched countless lives, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will take place on Friday, July 31 from 1PM until time of Funeral Service at 4PM at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home – Freeport; 504 N Walnut Ave, Freeport, IL 61032. Private burial will take place on Saturday at Dakota Cemetery in Dakota, IL. The family asks that those wishing to honor Andrea consider making a memorial contribution to RAMP: https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/ramp/general-donation.