Cremonia "Chris" Gibson

Cremonia “Chris” Gibson, a devoted wife, beloved mother, treasured grandmother, cherished sister and friend peacefully entered eternal rest on July 23, 2025 in Saginaw, Michigan. She was 83 years old.

Chris was born on January 5, 1942 in Mt. Hebron, Alabama, to the late Rev. Charles V. Watkins and Rebecca Watkins. She was one of seven children raised to value both faith and family, a foundation that shaped the way she lived her life.

Chris graduated from Greene County Training School in Boligee, AL. She moved to Saginaw, Michigan in 1964 where she built a beautiful life alongside her loving husband of 64 years, John Gibson Jr. Together, they raised four children: Angela Gibson, Derrick Gibson, both of Saginaw, MI., Anthony (Volanda) Gibson of Grand Rapids, MI, and Carmen (Trent) Myles of Westland, MI. Her legacy continues through her adoring grandchildren: Adaryll Gibson, Quartny (Elisabeth) Jones, Julian (Melissa) Gibson, Karisha Gibson, Antonia Gibson, Rasheda (JaVon) Welch, Anthony Gibson Jr., Tyeric Schwind, Evan Myles, Jared Myles, Nolan Myles and Coryn Myles; 16 great grandchildren; sisters, Bettye Watkins and Mary Watkins-Brown; god-daughters, Alesia Strickland and T’sha Marsh; bonus grandchildren: Paris Strickland, Lucky (Damarques) Lawson, Tierra Young, and Shine Strickland, a loving and loyal best friend Denise Steele; and nieces, nephews, family and friends on whom she left an indelible mark.

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings: Mattie Pegram, George Watkins, Anna Robinson, and Rebecca Watkins; nephews Mitchell Watkins, Ulysses Watkins, Terrance Brown, Roderick Brown, Samuel Watkins and Jean Watkins; and niece Pamela Brown.

Chris worked as a teacher’s assistant at Brunkow Elementary and The Melvin Millet Learning Center, but she took great pride and joy in being a devoted and faithful member of Truevine Missionary Baptist Church since 1964. Chris served passionately in the Gospel Chorus, Mass Choir, Sunday School Board, Mission Ministry, numerous event planning committees and even served as a girl scout troop leader for several years. Her commitment to her faith community was unwavering until her health failed.

Affectionately known as the “Glamour Girl” by her Watkins family, Chris was the epitome of style and sophistication. With her signature red hair and radiant presence, she turned every entrance into a moment. Always completely dressed in a hat, gloves, a matching handbag and shoes—and never without a perfectly pressed handkerchief—she carried herself with an elegance that was both timeless and unforgettable. Her impressive collection of over 90 hats speaks volumes about her flair for fashion.

Beyond appearance, Chris believed deeply in the power of presentation. She taught her children and everyone around her the importance of carrying oneself with grace, poise, and dignity. Her life was a living lesson in self-respect and quiet confidence—values she modeled consistently and passed down through generations.

Live Stream for Funeral Service

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