Joseph Gibbons

Joseph Alfred Gibbons, who went by Joe, passed away from a short illness on February 18, 2026, at the age of 80. Born in Louisville, Kentucky on August 6, 1945, he grew up in Rapid City, South Dakota. He later became a resident of Rockton, Illinois where he lived for the past 41 years. He was married to his beloved wife, Judy, with whom he enjoyed 50 years of adventures, including motorcycle rallies in Wisconsin, golfing in Door County, winters in Texas, and a memorable train trip through the Canadian Rockies. He loved nothing more than sharing stories and jokes with his family and friends, especially his kids and friend, Tom.

Joe worked as a Tool and Dye Machinist at Warner Electric in S. Beloit, Illinois before retiring in 2003. He relished the simple pleasures of life, from rocking in his glider on the back patio to golfing, cooking, canning, and using his smoker. He had an uncanny ability to make friends wherever he went, from the library to the Y pool.

Joe is survived by his spouse, Judy; his daughters, Christine Cullers and Sarah (Tyler) Romlein; grandchildren, Abby Romlein, Ethan Romlein, Olivia Cullers, and Ayden Cullers; and his brother, Kenny (Linda) Gibbons. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Ethel Gibbons; his brother, Jack (Linda) Gibbons; and his sister, Kaity Parks.

We will remember Joe with a memorial ceremony at McCorkle Funeral Home - Rockton Chapel, 767 N. Blackhawk Blvd., Rockton, IL on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. with a reception following. We invite all who knew and loved Joe to commemorate his life at this gathering. In his memory, we encourage you to contribute your cherished memories, stories, and photos on his memorial page.