It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved wife, mother, Mimi, sister, and friend, Mary Elaine Gibbs. Elaine left this world for her heavenly home on May 12, 2025, at the age of 78. Days before Easter her cancer came back with a vengeance, and she fought a hard fight to the very end.

Elaine was one of eight children, she was born and raised in Morenci, Arizona to the late Charles Wilie McPhearson and Gladys Ilene McPhearson. Elaine graduated from Morenci High School in 1965.  Later on, she moved to Arkansas to live with her sister, where she met the late Charles E. Gibbs, who she fell in love with and had been married to for 46 years. They met at the Tastee Freeze in North Malvern in 1967. Elaine worked a number of years at MNB.

Elaine was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Malvern, AR for many years. At FUMC she was involved in UMCORE, United Women in Faith, Friendship Sunday School Class, third Monday meals for the homeless, and an abundance of other activates.  After moving to Benton last year, she had started attending New Life Church in Bryant, AR. Elaine still remained a part of both communities. She attended a weekly bible study with her special friends, Kathy, Sandra, Betty, Shirley, and Peggy. This group was so special to her; they played cards, celebrated birthdays, traveled together, made gifts for the less fortunate, and most importantly treated each other like family. We will forever be thankful for the abundance of love and support this group showed to Elaine over the years.

Elaine is survived by her two loving children; Deann Balisterri (Mark) of Benton; Johnny Gibbs (Julie) of Malvern. Elaines' legacy shines through her grandchildren: Brooks Balisterri (Britten), Bailey Hathcoat (Drew), Jayci Gibbs, Jake Gibbs, and Maggie Gibbs; and her cherished dog Aspen who brought her so much joy.

She will be missed dearly by her siblings: Pam Moore of Louisiana, Vera Rothlisberger (Jim) of Arizonia, Donna McPhearson of Louisiana, Eugene McPhearson (Paula) of Louisiana, as well as all her nieces and nephews that hold a special place in her heart.

Elaine was preceded in death by her husband - Charles Gibbs, parents - Charles Wilie McPhearson and Gladys Ilene McPhearson: and siblings- Janice Engledow, Jean Boyles, Charles (Mac) McPhearson Jr.

A celebration of Elaine's life will be held on Thursday, May 15th, 2025, at J.A. Funk Funeral Home in Malvern, Arkansas. The visitation will be at  9:00a.m.  with a service to follow at 10:00 officiated by Chad Denmon and Dr. Candace Barron.  Interment will follow in Rockport Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Lance Walters, Michael Chance, Dane Wooten, Michael Balisterri, John Grigsby and Michael Watkins..

Special thanks to Dr. Shawn Purifoy, Dr. David Griffin, Dr. Derek Middleton, and Elite Hospice for their unwavering and compassionate care.

We are so grateful for you, mom. She was a wonderful mother who was always there when we needed her the most, offering support, wisdom, and love in abundance.  Thank you for always being straight with us and for being the best encourager. No matter what stage of life we were in your love and support was felt from miles away! Thank you for always being our biggest fan and for loving us.

Online condolences may be sent via jafunkfuneralhome.com