Castelia Cecile Gibson

CASTELIA CECILE GIBSON, 84, was born on May 24, 1942, in Sumter, South Carolina, to the late Albertus and Castelia (Wright) Richardson. She departed this life on June 21, 2026, in Baltimore, Maryland, after a lengthy and intense illness. She was preceded in death by her beloved sisters, Thelma and Mary Richardson. Affectionately known as Cecile, she attended Lincoln High School in Sumter, SC. Shortly after graduating, she and her family relocated to Baltimore, where she pursued her passion and lifelong career as a seamstress. On July 18, 1964, Cecile married Ervin Gibson, Jr. and from this union six children were born. She was a noble wife and a devoted mother. Cecile was employed as a seamstress at Max Rubin Industries, where she helped handcraft, men’s suits with exceptional skill and precision. After the warehouse closed, she continued her work creating medical uniforms and police wool coats. Sewing was not just her profession—it was her gift. She lovingly made suits and dresses for her children, prom gowns for her daughters and their friends, wedding dresses and bridesmaids’ gowns, and countless alterations for friends, family, and neighbors. Her home was a warm and welcoming place—one where everyone felt safe, loved, and accepted. Cecile became a mother figure to many. Among those she held especially close were her nephew Michael, cousins Shirley, Doris, and Marvin, and the younger cousins Jerry Jr., Lisa, LaTonya, and Romel. Many neighborhood and church children also lovingly called her “Mom” and “Grandma.” Cecile enjoyed cooking and baking, and her candied sweet potatoes, sweet potato pie, and sweet tea were unmatched. She had a generous heart and always looked out for those less fortunate. She shared whatever she had—no matter how little—with her signature phrase: “It’s not much, but you are welcome to it.” She offered wise counsel freely and lovingly to anyone who needed it. Cecile joined Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church on June 20, 1976, and remained a faithful member until her passing. Over the years, she served as Church Secretary and Usher and participated in numerous ministries, including the Official Board, Kitchen Committee, Senior Choir, Missionary Ministry, Senior Ministry, Vacation Bible School, and Sarah’s Hope Outreach Ministry, where she helped serve lunch monthly at the women’s shelter. She also supported clothing and blanket drives and helped distribute hot meals to those in need. Her presence and service will be deeply missed by the congregation. Cecile leaves to cherish her memory: her husband, Jr. (Ervin); six children, Christine (John) Watson, Calvin (Tina) Gibson, Alfred (Tammy) Gibson, Patricia Gibson, Anthony (Syretta) Gibson and Nicole Gibson; ten grandchildren, Kenneth (Myra) Cheeseboro Sr., Heather (Jono) Harris, Marquia Hall, Tiquita Gibson, Tishon Gibson, Anyia Gibson, Anthony Gibson, Jr., Alicia Horton, DaJonae (Kayla) Jamero, and Tai Jamero; eleven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson. She is also survived by her nephew Michael Pratt, great-niece Michel’le Pratt, and a host of other relatives and friends. Her legacy of love, generosity, and service will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know her.

Tributes

Castelia Cecile Gibson

May 24, 1942 - June 21, 2026