John Gibson

John Gibson, age 80, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of December 11, 2025. A devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather, John was known for his generous spirit and unwavering dedication to those around him. He was a kind and caring man who freely gave his time, guidance, and encouragement to others throughout his life.

John met his beloved wife, Nora Mae, while they were in high school, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in shared values of family, education, and the arts. They were married in 1968 and remained devoted to one another for more than five decades. Together, they shared a deep love for family, John's students, and the theatre community that became central to his life's work.

John was a graduate of Evanston High School in Evanston, Illinois. He continued his education at Western Illinois University, the University of South Dakota, the University of Notre Dame, and Roosevelt University in Chicago, where he earned his master's degree. He dedicated forty three years to teaching high school drama and stagecraft, inspiring countless students through his passion for performance and education. He taught at Abraham Lincoln High School and Thomas Jefferson High School in Council Bluffs before retiring from Omaha Central High School.

Beyond the classroom, John's influence extended throughout the regional theatre community. He directed productions at the Wilson Arts Center in Red Oak, Bellevue Little Theatre, and Chanticleer. His contributions to the performing arts were recognized with induction into both the Iowa Thespian Hall of Fame and the Iowa Speech Association Hall of Fame. He was also a proud member of the Craftsman Guild at Opera Omaha and was honored with the Mercy Heritage Award in recognition of his service and impact, he was also awarded Teacher of The Year with Omaha Public Schools.

John will be deeply missed by his wife of 56 years, Nora Mae; his daughter, Jean; his son, Patrick; Patrick's devoted girlfriend, Megan; his grandsons, Taylor and Brandon; and many extended family members, friends, students, and colleagues whose lives he touched.

A theatrical Celebration of Life will be held at the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center on April 25, 2026 at 2:00 PM

In lieu of flowers, donations will be directed by the family.