Douglas F. Gibson, Jr. passed away peacefully at home in Staunton, Va. on June 8, 2024, with his loving wife, Stella Gibson, by his side. Born on September 30, 1942, Doug was 81 when he passed. Doug was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Sally Carter Gibson and his parents, Douglas F. Gibson, Sr. and Olive S. Gibson.

Doug is survived by his wife, Stella I. Gibson; his three children, Sara Bishop, Charles Gibson, and Douglas F. Gibson III; and two stepsons, Anthony Riddle and Michael Riddle. In addition to his three grandchildren, Steven Douglas Bishop, Savannah L. Gibson, and Caitlin M. Bishop, he was blessed with six step-grandchildren, James Stockstill, Samone Riddle, Kenna Stockstill, Mackenly Riddle, Jake Riddle and Justin Riddle. He was blessed with one great-granddaughter, Carson Riddle.

A lifelong resident of Albemarle County, Doug graduated from Albemarle High School in 1961. In the 1960’s and 70’s he owned several businesses, including the Humpty Dumpty on Rt. 29 and The Pizza House restaurant on 9th and Cherry Avenue. Following his passion as a restaurateur, Doug went on to manage restaurants and dining establishments at UVA, eventually retiring from the UVA Darden School Foundation in 1997.

Doug held a variety of interests and hobbies throughout his life. He participated in bowling leagues at Mountain Bowl and Ivy Lanes, coached Peachtree youth baseball, and played the clarinet in the Charlottesville Municipal band. An avid camper who camped across the U.S., he later became a member of the Good Sams Club, enjoying all his camping buddies. His favorite activities, however, were boating and waterskiing. A waterskier well into his 70’s, Doug taught countless friends and family members how to waterski – at Lake Louisa, Bugs Island, and his beloved Smith Mountain Lake.

The family would like to express their deepest appreciation to Dr. Ryan Gentzler and his team at the UVA Emily Couric Cancer Center, to Dr. Bruce Campbell of Free Union, and to the loving and wonderful care members at the Hospice of the Piedmont.

Condolences may be shared with his family on the tribute wall.

For more on services and to share your condolences, visit Hill and Wood Funeral Service.