Eleanor Gibson

Eleanor Orr Gibson (Ellen), 89, of Taylors, died peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving family Wednesday, May 11, 2016 following a brief illness. A long-time Taylors resident, she was married to the late Lollie Gray Gibson for 62 years. They had two daughters: Deborah Gibson Spearman (Bill) of Simpsonville; and Terri Gibson McElhannon (Dennis) of Greer. She was the daughter of the late Milton Thomas and Gladys Jones Orr and was the last surviving member of her immediate family. She was a charter member of Lee Road Baptist Church and was active in the Joy Club and a member of the choir for 40 years. Mrs. Gibson possessed a true gift in caring for children. In addition to assisting in the daily care of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she provided weekly childcare in her home for dozens of families over two decades. She was also a respected employee of several childcare centers, her expertise and loving manner provided comfort to new working mothers. She was affectionately called “Granny” by not only her grandchildren, but to every child she cared for and even some adults. In addition to her daughters, she is survived by her sister-in-law and lifelong dearest friend, Mary Leslie Orr; her grandchildren, Ami Smith, her “Roomie” and dedicated caregiver, of Taylors; Adrienne Brown (Larry) of Greer; Amanda Doohen (Eric) of Simpsonville; and Collin McElhannon (Casey) of Greenville; great-grandchildren, Lauren Hawkes (Justin) of Kentucky; Steven Blake Holscher and Kathe Gibson Holscher of Simpsonville; Macy Doohen of Simpsonville; and Isabella Brown of Greer; one step-grandson, Sonny Spearman (Missy) of Simpsonville; and two step-great-grandchildren, Will and Madison Spearman of Simpsonville. The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to Barbara Maybin and Bonnie Powell for the exceptional care and assistance provided during her illness. We are forever indebted to you both for your compassion, friendship, and skilled assistance in making Granny’s final days comfortable and peaceful. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, May 16, 2016 at Lee Road Baptist Church conducted by Dr. Bill Hightower and Rev. Ralph Hefner. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be held 9:45-10:45 a.m. Monday at the church In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Smile Train, 41 Madison Ave., 28th Floor, New York, New York 10010. Online condolences may be made at www.thewoodmortuary.com.

Eleanor Gibson

January 22, 1927 - May 11, 2016