Carolyn Lutz Gibson, 81, passed away peacefully on Feb. 1 in Atlanta.
Carolyn Gibson, 81, passed away on Feb. 1. Her funeral will be on June 18.
Born in Washington, D.C., in 1944, Carolyn lived a life marked by adventure, joyful relationships, and an unwavering zest for life.
Following early years in Birmingham, Michigan, Carolyn was raised in Darien. There she developed a strong and independent spirit while sailing Long Island Sound. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Wheaton College in Norton, Massachusetts, and went on to work for Reader’s Digest in New York City and London.
After meeting her Scottish husband she explored life in many places — including Puerto Rico, Mexico, California, Georgia and New York — before settling in Madison, to be close to her dear parents. Eventually Carolyn was happy to spend the last decades of her life in the sunshine of Vero Beach, Florida.
Her adventurous nature was matched only by her active lifestyle. Whether sailing open ocean waters or kayaking through mangroves, playing tennis or bicycling scenic paths, dancing to music that stirred her soul or exploring new destinations around the world, Carolyn embraced each moment with energy and enthusiasm.
She made friends easily wherever she went and her vibrant personality shone brightest in moments of celebration-she loved gathering with loved ones to enjoy good food and plenty of laughter.
A devoted member of the Episcopal Church, Carolyn grounded her faith in love for all people and a positive focus on the blessings in her life. Her active commitment to civic engagement and the Democratic Party reflected her enduring belief in justice, inclusion, and the power of community. She volunteered her time generously by mentoring youth through various programs, supporting environmental causes, working on elections, and helping others learn English at the local library.
Carolyn cherished her family and friends. She now joins those who passed before her: her beloved husband, James Gibson; long-term partner, Jack English; brother Lanny Lutz; and parents Ruth and Allan Lutz. She is lovingly remembered by her son, Ian Gibson; daughter, Elizabeth Gibson-DeGroote; adoring grandchildren, Izro and Olian; sister-in-law, Katia Lutz; and niece, Natalie Lutz. She is also remembered with joy by countless friends around the world whose lives were touched by her warmth and vivacious character.
A Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Madison, followed by a reception for family and friends that wish to celebrate Carolyn’s life.
— an obituary on Legacy.com, where online condolences may be left