Leslie R. Gibbins passed away on September 30th, 2025, in McAlester, Oklahoma, at the age of 68. Born in Dallas, Texas, to Ruthell and Cecil Ray Gibbins, Leslie was raised in Grand Prairie, where he attended William B. Travis Elementary, Jackson Junior High, and South Grand Prairie High School.
In September 1976, Leslie enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving with the Combat Support Company, 2nd Battalion, 37th Armor, while attached to the U.S. Army Europe theater. His time in the military shaped his no-nonsense approach to life—disciplined, direct, and unapologetically his own.
After his service, Leslie worked as a truck driver in the oil and gas industry, a career that suited his independent spirit and strong work ethic. He was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 20 in Krebs, Oklahoma, and a proud member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1098 in McAlester, where he enjoyed swapping war stories, playing pool, and spending time with friends who understood the road he'd traveled.
Leslie made his home in McAlester with his wife, Frances Williams. He was known for his sharp wit, strong opinions, and loyalty to those he cared about. He didn't chase approval or pretend to be anything he wasn't. Those who knew him best understood that beneath the tough exterior was someone who lived by his own rules and valued honesty above all.
He is survived by his sons Christopher Gibbins and his wife Sandra, and Dustin Gibbins and his wife Jennifer, all of Grand Prairie, Texas; his stepchildren James Cummins and Tiffany Cummins-O'Houlahan of McAlester, Oklahoma; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Leslie also leaves behind his father, Cecil Ray Gibbins of Coalgate, Oklahoma; sisters Sherry Hilderbrand of North Richland Hills, Texas; Glenda Devoll and her husband James Devoll of Grand Prairie, Texas; Rochelle Reese of Stringtown, Oklahoma; his aunt Beverly Mabe and her husband Jim of McAlester, Oklahoma; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruthell Gibbins.
The family will hold a private memorial service. Leslie will be interred at the Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery, honoring his service and the life he lived on his own terms.