JADON GIBSON

James Donald “Jadon” Gibson, age 86, a resident of Harrogate, Tennessee, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on March 31, 2026 while surrounded by his loving family.

He was born March 24, 1940 in Lynch, Kentucky, the son of the late Parnel and Pauline Grace Gibson.

Jadon, as he was affectionately known, was the epitome and golden example of having a true, pure servant’s heart. There are not enough pages to describe the genuine and exceptional man that Jadon was, as well as the many accomplishments he garnished throughout his life, but we will certainly try.

In his early years, Jadon was a graduate of Wheelwright High School class of 1958, and then attended Alice Lloyd College and the University of Kentucky where he graduated with his Bachelor’s degree. In his youth, he had a love for running, competing in many races – some of which he won in his age group. A natural knack at pool, he was a reigning pool tournament champion and a bit of a showoff with 40 trick shots he wasn’t afraid to use. After the joys of youth and into his adulthood, Jadon went on to start his professional career in the insurance industry, proving to be an exemplary agent – earning over 50+ plaques of achievement, as well as being the top selling agent his last two years.

Jadon then began a lengthy and noteworthy career in the entertainment industry, a passion that extends and branches far beyond- reaching audiences near and far. He thrived in music promotion which he had done for 20+ years, a DJ for 30 years, as well as hosting a well-known radio show, “The Best in the Bluegrass” which aired during that time running 30 years. Many will recognize and know Jadon for his contributions, time and talents in promoting 230 traditional acoustic concerts in the tri-state area. Additionally, Jadon alongside his wife Chris hosted two television shows, “30 Minutes With” and “Jadon and Chris Live”. His dedication, drive and passion for the entertainment industry and bringing the joy of music to area audiences will continue to play on for years to come.

A published and accomplished historian, Jadon had a natural gift for genealogy, record keeping, story telling and carrying on the tales and traditions of times past. During his 40+ years as an author, Jadon penned many historical pieces that were widely published in as many as 15 media publications. Readers were presented with his fervent efforts to carry on historical accounts blended with his zeal of portraying stories with life and color.

Aside from his passions within music, publication, promoting and broadcasting, Jadon’s servantship extended to the heart of our area - its people. A charter member and past president of The Wilderness Road Kiwanis, Jadon saw great needs within our communities and sought to meet them with kindness, compassion and care. Alongside his wife, companion and sidekick Chris, he spearheaded many projects and programs while serving as a Kiwana such as, but not limited to, reading in local schools and providing backpacks and school supplies to the children.

It goes without saying that Jadon has received many accomplishments, awards and recognitions for his faithful servantship and dedication to our area too numerous to name, but all that were of great honor to him. In particular, Jadon was the proud recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Cumberland Gap Regional Tourist Association. A true example of lifetime selflessness and dedication backed by an unmatched work ethic, Jadon has given his time, talents and heart to our communities and the people within them that he loved so deeply. We can find comfort and solace in knowing that on March 31 Jadon walked onto the streets of gold met face to face with his Savior, and heard those words he so earned, “Well done my good and faithful servant.”

Left to cherish his memory, loving wife of 52 years, Chris Gibson, beloved sons Richard Gibson, Robert Gibson and wife Ruth, and Remo Moroni and wife Mahalla, siblings Larry Gibson and wife Grace, and Carol Gibson Hall, grandchildren Johnathon Gibson, Myles Gibson, Christian Harward, Cody Bertsch, Pepper Bertsch, Maki Kikuchi, Michelle Moroni and Anna Moroni, great-grandchild Cayden Christian Bertsch, as well as a host of other relatives, many dear friends, acquaintances and those whose lives he has touched throughout his lifetime of work.

The family of Jadon Gibson will receive friends from 12 noon until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at Green Hills Funeral Home.

A Celebration of his life will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, April 4, 2026 at the Green Hills Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jimmy Branscomb presiding. Music will be provided by Vic Graves, C.F. Bailey and Zach Wiles.

Graveside Services to immediately follow at the Mountainview Cemetery, Harrogate, Tennessee.

Green Hills Funeral Home, Middlesboro, is honored to serve the Gibson family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of JADON GIBSON, please visit our floral store.