Mary Alice "Granny" Gibson Nelson

Mary Alice “Granny” Gibson Nelson, age 93, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, December 25, 2025.

She was born in Swain County, North Carolina on June 9, 1932 and was the daughter of the late James Walter Gibson and Hettie Roland Gibson. Mary Alice was a loving dedicated Christian, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend to all that knew her. She retired from JP Stevens in Whitmire after many years of service.

Mary Alice is survived by her children, David Nelson of Taylors, SC, Kay Dillard of Whitmire, SC and Rusty Nelson of the home; her grandchildren, Gayle Mabe, Heath Ginn, Frank Phillips, Mandy Willard, William Cook; her great-grandchildren, Ashton Harris, Donnie Henry, Devon Henry, Jayden Phillips, Brandon Dantzler, Michael Dantzler; her great-great-grandchildren, Natalie Harris, Cash Harris, Miyah Henry, Bentley Henry, Parker Dantzler, Koda Dantzler and Michael Dantzler. “Granny” as she was known to everyone also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, friends and family.

In addition to her parents, Mary Alice is preceded in death by her daughter, Deborah, her two brothers and her five sisters. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

The family would like to thank MSA Hospice (Brandi and Desiree) for their love and care of “Granny”. A special thank you to a family friend, Dixie Roche.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday. January 3, 2026 at 12:00 PM at Gray Funeral Home Chapel of Whitmire with Rev. Todd Johnson and Rev. Eddie Bledsoe officiating. The family will greet friends prior to the service at the funeral home from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Burial will follow at Lee Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.grayfuneralhome.com

Gray Funeral Home of Whitmire is honored to assist the Nelson family with arrangements.