Obituary

Gregory Valentine Gibson, born on February 18, 1950, in Palo Alto, CA, to Robert Valentine and Maxine Catherine Gibson, spent his formative years in Pasadena, CA, alongside his two sisters, Gigi (Gail), and Buffy (Beth).  Growing up in Southern California, he developed a deep love for the ocean, fostering a lifelong passion for surfing and snorkeling.  He completed his high school education at Pasadena High School in 1968, after which he spent two years at Claremont Men’s College before transferring to Brigham Young University Provo.

At the age of 21, Gregory served an LDS mission in the Philippines, an experience for which he remained forever grateful. Upon his return, he resumed his studies at BYU Provo, where he met his sweetheart, Diana Kay Mackey.  They were married in the Los Angeles Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on October 12, 1974.  Together they were blessed with five children – Scott, Danny, Annie, Lindsey, and Joey – and down the road eight energetic grandchildren – Jake, Luke, Grant, Addie, Capri, McKay, Paige, and Laurence.

Greg pursued his legal education at Pepperdine Law School in Southern California, obtaining his bar license in 1978.  Initially practicing law in his father’s firm, he later ventured out on his own practicing securities law, the funding of startup companies, and the operations of international Pacific Rim businesses for over 20 years.  Greg loved reading and was passionate about his books and had a keen mind and an astoundingly accurate memory for all things history.

In a dramatic turn of events in 2002, Greg relocated to Laie, Hawaii, affiliating himself with Brigham Young University Hawaii.  This marked the beginning of a new chapter as he joyfully embraced teaching law and entrepreneurship, ultimately evolving into a fulfilling 21-year career.   In June 2023 he officially retired and moved back to the mainland where he spent his time surrounded by his children and grandchildren.  Much to the dismay of his family, Greg’s life took an unforeseen turn when he was diagnosed with skin cancer in early October.  He passed away on December 5, 2023.