Mary Jane Gibson

life story

Loving Mother, Grandmother and dedicated Special Education Teacher

“ I will always love you, always be with you…when you see a rainbow 🌈, I will be there. ❤️ ”

- Mom

Mary Jane Gibson, age 76, of Woodbury, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2026.

Born on January 4, 1950, Mary, affectionately known as Jane to her family, lived a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. She had a passion for traveling with her longtime partner, Gary Huelsman, and their beloved dog, Zoey. Whether exploring new places or spending time with family and friends, she embraced every opportunity to make lasting memories.

Mary dedicated more than 40 years to education, spending the majority of her teaching career with North St. Paul–Maplewood–Oakdale School District 622. She touched the lives of countless students and colleagues throughout her career and took great pride in helping children learn and grow.

Above all, Mary cherished her family. She was a devoted mother to her only son, Matthew Flynn (Gina), and a loving grandmother to Carson, Grady, and Natalie. She rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on, whether at baseball games, swimming and diving meets, or synchronized swimming competitions. Being present for her family brought her immense joy, and they were the center of her world.

Mary also treasured the many friendships she cultivated throughout her life. She enjoyed spending time with friends from 3M, Ski Club, Book Club, Wine Wednesdays, and Thirsty Thursdays. Her warm smile, infectious laugh, and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Roger and Margaret Gibson. She is survived by her longtime partner, Gary Huelsman; her son, Matthew Flynn (Gina); her loving grandchildren, Carson, Grady, and Natalie; her sisters, Patricia (Jim) Trog, Joanne (Dan) Juvera, and Kathy (Rob) Altendorfer; her brother, Larry Gibson; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Mary's love, generosity, adventurous spirit, and unwavering devotion to her family will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A visitation will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 10:00am until the time of the funeral service at 11:00am at Guardian Angels Church, 8260 4th Street North, Oakdale, MN 55128. A luncheon will immediately follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. The family plans to make a donation in Mary’s memory to Carver Elementary’s Special Education Resource Room to purchase books for the students.

memorial service

Visitation, Service and Luncheon following

August 14, 2026

Guardian Angels Catholic Church 8260 4th St N, Oakdale, MN 55128, USA