Harold Gibbons

Harold Gibbons, 85, a beloved pillar of the Bell County community, passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior on Sunday, February 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on February 2, 1940, in Pineville, Kentucky, Harold was the son of the late Bert and China Wilson Gibbons. His life was defined by unwavering faith, dedication to his family, and a profound love for his community.

Harold wore many hats throughout his lifetime, each reflecting his strong work ethic and passion for serving others. He worked for Mountain Drive Coal Company, established a local cable company—ensuring he’d never miss a Kentucky Wildcats game—and owned and operated Gibbons Construction, leaving his mark on the county he cherished. His dedication to Bell County led to his election as Magistrate for District 1, a role he faithfully served for 17 years.

A true "people person," Harold never met a stranger. He was always ready with a helping hand, a kind word, or a story that could brighten anyone’s day. His generosity extended not only to his family and friends but also to neighbors and even the occasional four-legged friend in need. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, and he was a devoted member of Mathel Pentecostal Church.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Chester Gibbons, Glen Gibbons, Coy Gibbons, Ules Gibbons, Jewel Cole, Vivian Brown, Shirley Cundiff, Frances Blair, and Gerlene Combs; and Thelma Gibbons, the mother of his children.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Darlene Harkins Gibbons; his daughters, Myra (Joe) Miracle and Leketta (Tim) Nantz; granddaughters, Amanda (Dustin) Brock, Scarlett (Taylor) Mills, Amelia (Jake) Jones, Cassidy (Seth) Steward, and Emily Miracle; and great-grandchildren, Parker, Mason, Emersyn, Harper, Madalynn, Eliza, Palmer, Scout, and Shiloh.

He is also survived by his stepdaughter, Dee Witt; step-grandchildren, Jordan Witt, Morgan (Dustin) Mills, Monica Gambrel, and Cody Gambrel; his brothers, Carroll (Media Sue) Gibbons and Truman (Phyllis) Gibbons; sisters-in-law, Dolly Jean Gibbons and Susan Gibbons; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends who were blessed to know him.

Harold’s family will receive friends on Thursday, February 13, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Cawood Funeral Home Chapel, Middlesboro, Kentucky. A funeral service will follow at 7:00 PM, officiated by Rev. David Gibbons, Rev. Hardy Franks, and Rev. Dale Gibbons, with music provided by Becky Gibbon and James Roark.

A graveside service will take place on Friday, February 14, 2025, at 1:00 PM. Friends and family will gather at Cawood Funeral Home before proceeding together to his final resting place.

Pallbearers will be Joe  Miracle, Tim Nantz, Taylor Mills, Dustin Brock, Jake Jones, Seth Stewart, Parker Elliott, and Mason Elliott.  

Harold’s kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith will forever be remembered. Though he has departed this world, his legacy of love and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:21