Gibson. Photo credit: www.rcistlucia.com
Fifty-three-year-old media stalwart, Pet Gibson passed away at the Tapion Hospital on Friday, leaving her two daughters and husband behind.
Gibson was reportedly ill for some time.
She had been involved in the media for some 30 years, having managed Radio Caribbean International (RCI) since 1998.
Former President of the St. Lucia Media Workers Association Jerry George described Gibson as a quiet and unassuming person.
“… always wanted to be in the background, but very involved and conscious of the need for organization of media personnel in St. Lucia,” George recalled.
According to a biography written by George on the RCI’s website, Gibson managed the station alongside Peter Ephraim- two long-serving members of staff- who took over the helm of the station when the French owners handed it to staff.
Prior to becoming the manager, Gibson served in various capacities, including traffic manager, where she contributed to the development of the station’s sales and marketing thrust in the competitive marketplace.
Realizing that she would need knowledge-power to backup her experience in the business, Gibson successfully completed the Diploma in Management with the University of the West-Indies (UWI-Institute of Business, IOB, St. Augustine Campus, Trinidad & Tobago).
She handled administrative aspects – financial and sales – of the station, both which are regarded as the engine of any broadcast facility.
Gibson has been recognized by the St. Lucia Media Association for her contribution to local media development. She served the organization as its secretary.
She was a member of the Allegro Pan Groove Orchestra, an all women steel band, Victoria’s Friends – a charitable community based organization working to improve the quality of life of patients at the Victoria Hospital.
Gibson also served on the National Carnival Queen Committee for several years, benefactor, mentor, and supporter of Red International Carnival Band, liaison officer for St. Lucia Jazz and a registered national volunteer.
The funeral will take place on Saturday at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
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