Joan Gibbons passed away peacefully and surrounded by love and care in her home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on August 12, 2026. Born April 11, 1929, in Leonia, New Jersey, Joan’s long and vibrant life was filled with beauty, creativity, and boundless devotion to her family and passions.

Joan was a third-generation artist. Growing up amidst the fine art of her mother and grandfather, art flowed naturally through her life from an early age. She followed her calling to the University of Arizona, where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree, and later continued her studies with well-known impressionist artists such as Lau Chan and Sergei Bongart. Through these influences and her innate talent, Joan cultivated an artistic voice all her own.

After marrying her beloved Harold Thomas (Gib) Gibbons on December 28, 1951, in Phoenix, Arizona, Joan’s life blossomed in partnership, friendship, and family. She and Harold cherished entertaining guests, often filling their home with the laughter and warmth of friends and loved ones. The memories built during these joyful gatherings remain dear to her family.

Joan painted what she loved and saw around her—whether it was the view from her studio window in Orinda, California, or the irresistible adobe buildings and sprawling gardens of Santa Fe. The unique light and atmosphere of the Southwest became central to her celebrated work. Her award-winning southwest impressionist oil paintings graced galleries and exhibits, while prints of her work found admirers across the country. Joan’s artistry was featured in prominent publications such as The Santa Fean Magazine and Spiegel Catalog, and she was honored with an article and the cover of a national magazine. Her successful career stood as a testament to both her gift and fierce determination.

Art was far from Joan’s only passion. She was a skilled harpist, lovingly restoring her own harp by hand, adorned with gold leaf. She found joy in restoring treasured pieces and was known for her pride in handiwork, whether in art or in her skilled seamstress creations. Joan also delighted in gardening and was an active member of the Santa Fe Garden Club. Her talents extended to the kitchen as well, where she was known as an excellent cook.

At her core, Joan was strong-willed, caring, and deeply loving—a woman who was both deeply devoted to her various communities and endlessly proud of her family. She especially cherished her children, holding them as her proudest accomplishment and greatest joy. Her children fondly recall family adventures, like fun waterskiing trips, that speak to the enduring nature of her love and spirit.

Joan’s heart always remained closely tied to Harold, even after his passing. She visited his resting place often, honoring the bond and adoration that defined their decades together.

Joan is survived by her children Eric Shaun Gibbons, Val Gregory Gibbons, and Ellen Margaret Botsford. She leaves behind her grandchildren Bob Aunchman, Dave Aunchman, Paige Gibbons, Emily Gibbons, Tucker Gibbons, and Maxim Botsford. Her legacy further lives on in her great-grandchildren Edward Aunchman, Alex Aunchman, David Aunchman, Rylinn Gibbons, Lexi Gibbons, and her great-great granddaughter Riley Aunchman. Joan was predeceased by her beloved husband Harold Thomas Gibbons and her grandson Shaun Nathan Gibbons.

Joan Gibbons’ spirit endures in the bright colors of her paintings, the close-knit embrace of her family, and the treasured friendships she so carefully cultivated. She changed the world around her with her artistry, kindness, and an uncompromising love of life. Those whom she touched will hold her in their thoughts, grateful for the time they shared with such an extraordinary and beloved woman.

The family of Mrs. Gibbons have entrusted the caring professionals at Rivera Family Funeral Home of Espanola to support them during this time. Our heartfelt condolences to all.