Shirley Gibson Obituary – Cause of Death: In loving memory of Shirley Gibson, the first mayor of Miami Gardens.

Shirley Gibson died on Monday evening, October 16, just days after she had a brain hemorrhage, her daughter Tiffany Wimbery-McMillan confirmed. Gibson was 79.

A Miami-Dade police officer turned elected official, Gibson served as Miami Gardens mayor from the city’s establishment in 2003 until terming out in 2012. Gibson earned a bachelors of arts in Criminal Justice in 1981 and a masters in pastoral ministries earlier this year.

In 2013, Gibson received an honorary doctorate from the university.

“Mourning the loss of Shirley Gibson, the first mayor of Miami Gardens, a truly exceptional leader. Her contributions to nurturing the pride of Florida’s largest primarily Black city, now known as Miami Gardens,” Councilwoman Katrina Wilson said.

“Shirley Gibson was a woman of remarkable tenacity, unwavering dedication, and boundless compassion. Her leadership, as Miami Gardens’ first mayor, demonstrated strength and vision, while her commitment to her community showcased her profound love for its people. She was a trailblazer who inspired others with her wisdom, grace, and determination.”

“Her journey has been an invaluable source of wisdom and inspiration for me, as I continue to learn from this remarkable woman’s legacy.”

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