Jay Gibson, of McNeill, Mississippi, passed away on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at the age of 47. Born on May 29, 1978, Jay leaves behind a family who loved him deeply and a space in their hearts that can never be filled.

For over 30 years, Jay worked as a crane operator, a job that demanded strength, precision, and grit—qualities he carried not only in his work, but in every part of his life. He was the kind of man who showed up, worked hard, and took care of the people he loved without ever asking for recognition.

But more than anything, Jay was a husband, a daddy, and a PawPaw—and those were the roles he held closest to his heart.

He shared 24 years of love, laughter, and life with his wife, Shannon Mason Gibson. Through every high and every storm, they stood side by side. Their love was steady, deep, and unwavering—a kind of love that doesn’t end, even in loss.

Jay was a proud father to his three sons, Cameron (Madison), Carter (Kaley), and Cade (Zoe), all of McNeill. They were his world. Everything he did, every sacrifice he made, was for them. The love he had for his boys was strong, quiet, and constant—and it will live on in each of them.

Becoming a grandfather brought Jay a whole new kind of joy. His grandchildren, Sadie Rae Gibson and Colter Gibson, were pieces of his heart walking around outside of him. The way he loved them was something truly special, and that love will forever be part of who they are.

He is also survived by his sisters, Shelbie Gibson and Danielle Gibson of Picayune, Mississippi, and his brother, Justin Gibson of Picayune, Mississippi; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Susan and Don Mason of McNeill; along with several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and extended family who will carry his memory with them always.

Jay is preceded in death by his parents, Marshall Gibson and Jan Bonsack, and his sister, Michelle Gibson.

There are no perfect words for a loss like this. Jay was the quiet strength of his family—the steady presence, the protector, the one who made everything feel a little more secure just by being there. His absence leaves a silence that will be felt in the smallest moments and the biggest ones.

But even in heartbreak, there is something that remains unshaken—love. The love he gave so freely, the life he built, and the family he held together will continue on. His story doesn’t end here… it lives on in his wife, his boys, his grandchildren, and in every memory they will hold onto forever.

Jay will be missed beyond words, loved beyond measure, and remembered for a lifetime

A visitation for Jay will be held for 11AM with a funeral to follow for 1PM officiated by Bro. Leo Burge on Tuesday April 28, 2026 at Picayune Funeral Home located at 815 S. Haugh Ave. Picayune, MS 39466.

Burial to follow at McNeill Cemetery. 

All arrangements are under the direction of Picayune Funeral Home.