Dione Montrel Gibbs

Dione Montrel Gibbs, a remarkable woman of strength and resilience, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025, at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo, MI. Born on February 7, 1953, in Battle Creek, MI, Dione was a devoted single mother and a loving grandmother whose unwavering spirit touched the hearts of many.

Throughout her life, Dione exemplified what it meant to be giving and hard-working. She dedicated her career to the automotive industry, spending many years as a welder for GM and American Axel. Despite the challenges that life presented her, including her numerous battles with cancer from the mid-2000s onward, Dione faced each day with grace, humility, and an inspiring faith. Her strength was not only defined by her perseverance but also by her deep commitment to her family; she worked tirelessly, often putting in overtime to ensure her three beloved sons—Aaron, Adrian, and Asa—had everything they needed.

Dione's love language was one of actions; she believed in serving others and her acts of kindness resonated throughout her community. She enjoyed her leisure time, finding joy in watching the American crime drama series, Columbo, and adored spending time with her grandchildren: Alaicia, AJ, Asa III, Alexander, Ariana, and her loss will leave a palpable void in their lives. To all who knew her, Dione was more than just fashionable and classy; she commanded respect and admiration in her Kalamazoo community.

Dione is survived by her loving sons, Aaron Dickason, Adrian Dickason, and Asa Dickason Jr., along with her six cherished grandchildren. She is also remembered fondly by her brother, James Fields, sister, Sandra Fields, as well as her stepsiblings: Charles Gonder Jr, Teri Gonder, Mark Gonder, and Pam Gonder. Dione leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and strength, cherished by many family members and friends who will surely miss her gentle spirit.

Though she is preceded in death by her beloved parents, James Samuel Fields and Martha Maylue Upchurch, Dione's memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. The world is a little less bright without her light, but her indomitable spirit and the love she shared will continue to inspire all those she touched.