Geneva Evans Gibson Bagwill, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2024, in Memphis, Tennessee, at the age of 94. Born on June 27, 1930, in Randolph County, Arkansas, she was the cherished daughter of James Evans and Telia Shockley Evans.
Geneva spent her formative years in Maynard, Arkansas, where she attended high school before marrying Roy Lee Gibson. Together, Roy and “GG” built a loving home in St. Louis, Missouri, where they raised three sons: Roy Jr., Stephen, and Gregory. Following Roy’s passing in 1972, Geneva found love and support in her second marriage to Buford Osborn Bagwill. They lived in Memphis until his passing in 1992.
Geneva’s professional journey in property management began with the family’s development of the Geneva Apartments in St. Louis, a venture she embraced with enthusiasm and dedication. She later continued her career in Memphis, where her skills and warmth created many friendships in the community. Geneva was also known for her volunteer work at St. Joseph Hospital East, where she selflessly gave her time and compassion. A true lover of nature and the outdoors, GG loved gardening and surrounding herself with flowers. Geneva’s generous spirit was manifested in her joy of cooking, and, above all, making memories with her family.
She was predeceased by many, including her sons, Roy Jr. and Stephen, as well as her grandsons, Grant and Ben Gibson, her brother, Buford Moore, sister-in law, Anna Barnes, and countless dear friends.
Her legacy of love and resilience lives on through her surviving family: brother-in-law, Charles Gibson; children, Gregory Gibson, Gary Bagwill, Dana Bagwill Hurst, and Cindy Bagwill Carmack; grandchildren, Sarah Gibson Svoboda, Julie Gibson Dungan, Clayton Gibson, Kara Gibson Schilli, Bryce Bagwill, Brooke Bagwill Kannady, Nina Bagwill Garcia, Megan Bagwill Williams, David Carmack, Mary Carmack, nine great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Geneva’s heart extended far beyond her immediate family, as she became a second mother to many, including her niece Rosemary Barcliff, Gail Spangler, and Doug Ballinger. The family wishes to express its deep gratitude for the exceptional care she received at the Memphis Jewish Home, especially from Donovan Burton.
A service to honor Geneva’s remarkable life will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 12 PM at Edwards Funeral Home in Doniphan, Missouri, with interment to follow in Poynor, Missouri.
GG will be remembered by everyone who knew her for her kindness, unwavering love, and the many lives she touched throughout her incredible journey.
