Ann Eden Gibson

Ann Eden Gibson, a luminous presence in the world of art history and a beloved member of her family, passed away on October 9, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona, at the age of 81 . Born on April 30, 1944, in Hagerstown, Maryland, Ann was a force of nature whose passion for art, teaching, and life brought joy and inspiration to everyone around her.

An accomplished Professor of Art History, Ann dedicated her career to educating others at prestigious institutions including Yale, Stony Brook in New York, and the University of Delaware. Her profound knowledge and passionate advocacy for the arts, particularly for under-represented black artists and abstract expressionism, shaped the minds of countless students. Ann was a published author, known for her significant work "Abstract Expressionism: Other Politics", released in 1977. In recognition of her lasting impact on the field, she was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Georgia O'Keeffe Foundation, a testament to her dedication and passion.

Ann's educational journey began with her graduation from St. Vincent High School in Akron, Ohio. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Pottery from Kent State, followed by a Master's degree from the University of Pittsburgh, culminating in a Ph.D. from the University of Delaware, all of which contributed to her rich understanding of art and its history.

Her wonderful smile and wide curiosity made her a friend to many. Ann was kindness personified, always ready to listen and share her insights, and she cherished the relationships she formed throughout her life. She was an avid traveler who reveled in adventures across Europe, enjoyed the serene beauty of Ireland, and made wonderful memories on Viking Tour cruises with her husband, Stephen Fogg.

Ann's love for gardening was another passion that brought her great joy; she was proud to be a member of the University of Arizona Master Gardener Program, Saddlebrooke chapter. Her interests connected her deeply to the earth and those around her, as she shared her garden's beauty with family and friends.

Ann is survived by her devoted husband, Stephen Fogg; her loving daughter, Jessica (Christof) and step-daughters, Michele and Elizabeth; her cherished sisters, Helen, Sue, and Janie; and her seven treasured grandchildren, August, Dashiel, Matthew, Dominick, Sophia, Nick, and Will. . She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, and her closest friends, Michael and Barbara Arndt, all of whom were touched by her boundless love and encouragement.

She is preceded in death by her parents, James O. Gibson and Mary Ellen Ellis, and her sister-in-law, Nancy Parsons. Their memories and the values they instilled in her will forever be an enduring part of Ann’s legacy.

As we remember Ann Eden Gibson, we honor not only a brilliant scholar but also a friend, sister, and mother whose love and light will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. The world is indeed a brighter place for having had her in it, and she will be deeply missed.