Mary Elizabeth Swafford Gibson, age 80, of Benton, TN, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and friends. A devoted servant of Jesus, Mary was a cherished member of Mtn. View Baptist Church, where she faithfully served as song leader, Sunday school teacher, and played an important role in Vacation Bible School and Christmas plays.

Born at home on July 6, 1945, to the late Ruby Hall and Tommie Swafford, Mary lived a life marked by compassion and service. Her caring heart was evident in the way she daily tended to her family, friends, church community, and even strangers. She devoted her life to following the example of Jesus Christ, exhibiting the grace and kindness of a woman whose presence brought warmth and joy to every room she entered.

Mary was the beloved wife of the late Freddie Lee Gibson Sr., and together they raised four children: the late Tommy Gibson, Dennis Gibson, Joe Johnson, and Freddie Lee Gibson Jr. Through the joys and challenges of motherhood, Mary learned patience, love, generosity, and the value of a calm spirit.

Some of her fondest memories were spent with her church family, traveling, and enjoying time with the non-profit, Happy Hearts. Above all, Mary's faith, love, and gentle spirit touched everyone who knew her.

Left to cherish the many memories include her three children, Dennis W. Gibson, Joe Johnson, and Freddie L. Gibson Jr. (Crystal Whitmire); grandchildren, Nicholas (Lauren) Gibson, Joseph (Sabrina) Johnson II., Cherokee Johnson, Noah Johnson, Katy Johnson, Heather (Hector) Jaramillo, Christopher (Serena) Gibson, and Hayden Gibson; great-grandchildren, Evelyn Gibson, Olivia Gibson, Isaiah Johnson, Brandon Johnson, Nacoma Newman, Marlee Newman, Harrison Jaramillo, and Hanalee Jaramillo.

Funeral services will be conducted at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Mtn. View Baptist Church, with Pastor Pete Morgan, Bennie Watson, and Steve Miller officiating.  A graveside committal service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the church cemetery with Christopher Lee Gibson, Nicholas Gibson, Hayden Gibson, Justin Rutledge, Hector Jaramillo, and Eric Weaver serving as pallbearers.  Don Trupiano, Todd Wade, and Doug Jackson will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Her family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, prior to the service at the church.

A special thank you to Crystal Whitmire and Betty Hamby for the devoted care she provided to Mary. She worked closely with our family to ensure Mary received the very best care, and we are deeply grateful for her kindness and dedication.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.HigginsFunerals.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Higgins Funeral Home of Benton.