Roberta passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, at the age of 95, after a short illness.
She left us surrounded by her family’s love, having lived a long and meaningful life filled with kindness, dedication, and quiet happiness.
Born on March 11, 1931, in Midland, Ontario, Roberta was raised in a loving family.
She was preceded in death by her dear brothers, Martin Shaw (Mary) and Jim Shaw (Vivian), whose memories she held close throughout her life.
From a young age, Roberta displayed curiosity and a love for learning that led her to become an educator. She graduated from the Ontario Teachers College in 1950 and began teaching in a one-room schoolhouse in Apto, Ontario -a place that required creativity, patience, and a true affection for children.
The experiences from those early years solidified her lifelong commitment to nurturing others-a quality that shone through both at work and home.
In 1952, Roberta married Harold Alexander (Al) Gibson, the love of her life.
Their marriage lasted an incredible 74 years-proof of their deep devotion to each other along with mutual respect and shared laughter through all of life’s ups and downs.
Together they created a warm home filled with family and friends as well as simple joys that meant everything to them.
Roberta was a devoted mother to five children: the late Jane Manley (Tom), Tom Gibson (Marianne), Jim Gibson (Rosemary), Jill Gibson (Fernando Esposito), and Tim Gibson (Kaori).
She took great delight in their unique journeys and felt immense pride in their successes. Being a grandmother to 15 grandchildren and great-grandmother to 10 brought her endless joy; she treasured every moment spent with them-whether telling stories, baking treats or simply watching them grow up.
Apart from family time, Roberta found joy in everyday moments that brightened her days.
An excellent cook, she enjoyed making hearty meals from scratch while often filling her home with the comforting scents of fresh bread or homemade pies.
Her creative side flourished through painting where she captured beautiful scenes from nature and family life using delicate brushstrokes.
Crocheting was another favorite hobby; she made countless Afghan quilts and baby blankets that remain cherished keepsakes for those who received them as gifts from her heart.
Roberta’s gardening skills transformed her yard into a vibrant oasis of flowers which she tended lovingly over the years.
A sports fan for life; she followed her favorite teams enthusiastically while enjoying friendly games with family members too.
Most importantly though were the dogs who occupied special places within her heart; they were loyal companions who brought daily joy along with unconditional love into her life.
Roberta’s journey exemplified grace , resilience , and how small acts can have big impacts.
She greeted each day expressing gratitude , finding beauty within ordinary things while demonstrating strength through quiet perseverance.
Though we will miss her greatly , her influence continues living on via generations nurtured by what she taught us , the traditions passed down alongside countless lives enriched by encountering such gentle spirit.
After moving from Toronto to Gravenhurst during fall of1997 – just up from Segwun -she along with Al would frequently stroll down towards Lake Muskoka walking their teenage black labs nearby.
They would wave at new friends peeking out through windows while exchanging quick chats as neighbors waved warmly cheering on The Gibsons during their daily walks together.
Active members within Gravenhurst Horticultural Society over many years-they admired gardens lining Bay Street complimenting fellow green thumbs about landscaping achievements too! Sometimes bringing back tips learned onto personal flowerbeds gracing their own lovely bungalow facing towards Gravenhurst residence itself!
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Not needing much help since both diligently tended gorgeous backyard gardens right until end remaining proud owners decorated beautifully! As such-a seasoned member receiving ribbons/awards participating actively winning accolades showcased throughout various annual summer flower shows hosted locally !
CELEBRATION OF LIFE A celebration of Roberta’s life will take place at a later date. The family will share details when available. In lieu of flowers , the family kindly requests donations made honoring Roberta’s memory directed toward Andy’s House , Hospice Muskoka located Port Carling area where passing occurred this week. This wonderful organization provides compassionate home-like care alongside invaluable support offered individuals families experiencing end-of-life journeys south Muskoka aligning closely values held dearly by our beloved throughout lifetime. Please consider donating via Hospice Muskoka’s website or through Cavill Funeral Home https://www. hospicemuskoka. com/andyshouse Rest peacefully now dear Roberta. Your light continues shining brightly among everyone who knew loved you! This obituary was written by Mark ClairmontSource link
