J. WIlliam Gibson

The J. William Gibson Scholarship was established by his wife, Mary Hood Gibson, in loving memory of J. William Gibson, a highly respected attorney with significant contributions to the legal profession. He passed away on April 16, 2007, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, expertise, and a deep love for his family and friends.

Mr. Gibson began his academic journey at Boys High School in Atlanta and went on to pursue higher education at Emory University. He earned his B.A. in 1953 and his J.D., with distinction, from Emory University School of Law in 1956. During his time at Emory, he distinguished himself as a diligent student and a member of the Bryan Society and Phi Delta Phi.

After completing his legal studies, Mr. Gibson embarked on a successful legal career that spanned several decades. He started his practice in Atlanta in 1955 and became a partner at the prominent law firm Hansell & Post, where he worked from 1962 to 1988. Later, he joined Hunton & Williams as a partner from 1988 to 2000. Throughout his career, he focused on corporate law, mergers, acquisitions, reorganizations, strategic alliances, and represented clients from both the United States and the United Kingdom.

Mr. Gibson was a highly esteemed member of the legal community, holding memberships in various professional organizations. He was a member of the State Bar of Georgia for over 50 years and was admitted to practice in Georgia courts, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, the United States Claims Court, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th and 11th Circuits, and the Supreme Court of the United States. He actively participated in the American Bar Association, Atlanta Bar Association, Lawyers Club of Atlanta, and the Old War Horse Lawyers Club.

Outside of his legal endeavors, Mr. Gibson engaged in numerous community and personal pursuits. He served on the Board of Trustees for Literacy Action, Inc. and was involved in the Fulton County Democratic Executive Committee and the British American Business Group. Mr. Gibson was also a member of the Episcopal Cathedral of St. Philip, the Gridiron Club, the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity, and various prestigious clubs such as the Commerce Club and the Cherokee Town & Country Club.

Mr. Gibson is remembered for his dedication to the legal profession and his passion for life. He had a particular affinity for history, gourmet cooking, and travel, with a special fondness for the United Kingdom. His presence and contributions made a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of knowing him, and his legacy continues to inspire the legal community.