Karen Dale Templeton Gibson

Karen Dale Templeton Gibson, 81 passed to glory on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at her home in Cullen, VA. She was born at home in Abilene, Virginia on June 16, 1944 to Hattie Arrington Templeton and Noah Jackson Templeton. Karen grew up on the family farm in Charlotte County, the third of six children. By the time she could talk, she began to sing. At the age of 12, she asked for piano lessons and began her music education with Miss Bessie Daniel, where she found the language of her soul. She attended Longwood College majoring in music education with a concentration in voice. While there she also learned to play the organ and cello and her interest in stringed instruments was born. She received her Master’s in Education from Longwood University. At the age of 15, Karen dedicated her life to full time Christian Service. She kept that commitment by leading choirs in local churches for six decades, always focusing on loving music that praised God. Karen is survived by her husband, Henry Newton Gibson, her son Nolan Newell Gibson (Crystal) and daughter Camille Sams Gibson Rabon (Sam), grandchildren Hunter and Jacob Gibson, Seth, Caleb and Isaac Rabon, sisters Hazel Harrison, Linda McClung, Wanda Stewart, Marcia Templeton, and sister-in-law Alice Templeton. Karen is predeceased by her parents and a brother, Murray Templeton. Karen helped Henry grow their farm, run a catering business, and open a beloved local restaurant. Across multiple decades, she taught music in Charlotte, Appomattox, and Prince Edward schools, ran a Yahama music school, as well as taught music in her home. Many generations of children have grown up singing and playing music because Mrs. Gibson showed them her love for music. Karen had several passions in life – the first were her husband and children whom she loved fiercely. As the grandsons arrived, Granny K showered them with love, food, and lessons of all kinds. Her family, music, and flowers were passions that colored her life. Her home and yard were filled with flowers, plants, toys, puzzles, artwork, pianos, organs, and string instruments of every kind. On her last lucid day, she played with her dulcimer group who faithfully came to play for her even when she could not respond. 

A celebration of Karen’s life will be held at Heritage Baptist Church at 2:00 PM on Saturday, March 14, with a viewing from 12:30 PM until 1:30 PM. A graveside service will follow at Madisonville Presbyterian Church at 4:00 PM, with a reception afterward. If you wish to make a contribution in Karen’s honor, the family suggests that you make one to the charity of your choice.