Columbus, OH – John Gary Gibson, 93, died on June 3 with his wife, Texie, at his side. He was a harness horse trainer, driver, and veterinarian who focused on treating racing injuries.
Born in 1932 to Harold and Ethel (McCrickett) Gibson, he inherited his love of horses from his parents. Early on, he knew he wanted to race horses, but he wanted to understand more about them, particularly how to treat race injuries. He earned an accelerated Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Michigan State University.
John met the love of his life, Texie Hinkle, in 1956 while Texie worked as a waitress at the Rose Room inside the L. H. Field’s Department Store. They later married and raised their children in Jackson. John treasured Texie as the person who created a wonderful life for their family.
His life’s passion was horse racing, and he traveled the country training and driving Standardbred horses. His veterinary practice was nationally recognized for his expertise in lameness and leg injuries. In the rough-and-tumble world of harness racing, he stood out for his honesty and kindness: he didn’t curse, smoke, or drink, and he fought against cheating and doping in the racing industry. He was a tireless champion for the humane treatment of racehorses, including advocacy for safer track surfaces. In 2001, he was named to the Michigan Harness Horsemen’s Association Hall of Fame.
A foodie before it was cool, he was an amazing chef, winning blue ribbons at the Jackson County Fair (under a pseudonym), traveling to farmer’s markets to find great produce, and perfecting complex baking recipes. He inspired two generations of bakers, but his skills may never be matched.
In his later years, he enjoyed getting breakfast with other horsemen, reading mystery novels (usually figuring out the ending early on), and enjoying the adventures and achievements of his children. He enjoyed all sports and was an excellent, self-taught tennis player.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Greta Hudler, and a grandson, Owen. In addition to Texie, John is survived by his four children, Gary (Yvonne Reineke), Hugh Leslie (Ann), Charlotte (Nicholas Zavos), and Gail; six grandchildren, Paul Gibson, Jack Gibson (Katie), Mark Gibson, Madeleine Corrado (Philip), Henry Zavos, and James Zavos; and many nieces and nephews.
He was deeply loved and will be forever missed. To honor his life and memory, the family asks that any donations be made to the Jackson County Animal Shelter.