William Laurence "Larry" Gibson, Jr.

William Laurence Gibson, Jr., 68, of Laurinburg, NC, passed away on March 30, 2025, after a long illness. William, or Larry, as he was known by his family and many others, was born March 5, 1957, to William Laurence Gibson, Sr., and Joyce Gentry Gibson of Laurel Hill, NC.

 Larry graduated from Scotland High School in 1975. He was editor of the high school newspaper, the Bagpipe, a role in which he began his lifelong passion for exploring stories about people, ideas, and history that excited and interested him.

Larry went on to study political science at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and continued on with post-graduate studies, obtaining a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Virginia. He worked in town management in Petersburg, VA, Greenville, SC, Nags Head, NC, and as Town Manager of Carrboro, NC, where he was a beloved member of the community, frequently found catching up with folks at Weaver Street Market, talking to neighbors in Cheswick Court near his home, or reading in Wilson Library on the UNC campus, where he spent much of his time.

Known for his near encyclopedic knowledge of U.S. and N.C. history, as well as being a wonderful raconteur of Southern life and culture, people were drawn to him for engaging conversation. He also warmed many hearts with his endearing self-deprecating humor, gentlemanly graciousness, and lively rendition of Eric Clapton’s “Layla” on the piano.

Larry was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his three sisters: Kimberly Gibson Johnson of Atlanta, GA, Janet Gibson Cameron of Dunn, NC, and Jennifer Gentry Gibson of Brooklyn, NY.

A private graveside service was held by the family members on April 2, 2025. The family requests that for those who wish to memorialize Larry to please make donations to the Southern Historical Collection at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

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