Published on April 10, 2026 6:31 am
Last Updated on April 10, 2026 6:31 am
Denise Gibler, 63, of Shumway, IL, formerly of Athens, IL passed away on April 8, 2026 at Willowbrook Memory Care.
Denise was born on April 24, 1962, in Springfield, IL to Dave and Sandy Hackman. Denise graduated from PORTA High School in 1980. She began working as an administrative assistant for the Springfield Education Association. With the exception of 2 years spent at the Illinois Education Association, she spent her entire career in this position. She retired in 2016 due to her declining health. Denise loved her job and all the people she worked with at the SEA. She often said “We worked hard but we had a lot of fun”. Denise also discovered a love of yoga and became a registered yoga teacher and was co-owner of Ahh Yoga in Springfield for several years. She married Kenny White of Petersburg in 1981. They had one daughter, Ashley. She survives. In 2001, Denise married Mike Gibler. He preceded her in death in 2020. They had many grand adventures often involving camping, shenanigans at their farm, and bourbon. Their greatest adventure was their granddaughters, Haleigh, Madelyn (Maddie), and Katie. Being Nonnie to these girls was one of Denise’s greatest joys of her life. Those who knew Denise knew of her love for fun, nature, and friends and family. She had a quiet calmness and strength about her. She was incredibly selfless, often putting others needs above her own. Her gentle kindness and genuine nature made her truly one of a kind.
Denise is survived by her daughter, Ashley of Petersburg: granddaughters, Haleigh, Madelyn (Maddie) and Katie; her father, David of Shumway; siblings, Vicki (Gary) Goodnight of Conroe, TX, Jo (David) Lagerhausen of Shumway, and Michael (Karen) Hackman of Spring, TX.
She was predeceased by her husband, Mike, mother Sandy, and sister Lisa Chua.
Memorials can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Athens Public Library in Athens, IL, the Audubon Society, or your local animal shelter.
Per Denise’s wishes, she will be cremated. A celebration of life will be scheduled for a later date.
Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham, IL assisted the family with final arrangements.