It is with sadness that we note the passing of Jeanne Gibson, one of the last surviving “Rosie the Riveters” of the Greatest Generation.

Jeanne died Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at the remarkable age of 100. Her family and friends mourn the loss of a woman whose courage, dedication and unwavering spirit helped shape history—and will continue to inspire generations still to come.

At just 18, Jeanne left her Minnesota home in the summer of 1944 and answered her nation’s call. She became a welder at Todd Pacific Shipyards in Seattle, helping build destroyers for the Allied war effort. She later continued her service with the Army Transportation Corps in Juneau, Alaska, embodying the resilience and patriotism of her generation.

But Jeanne’s legacy extended far beyond the war.

She earned a Ph.D., devoted three decades to teaching and acquired her private pilot’s license. For the rest of her life, she demonstrated that courage, determination and purpose know no age.

In 2024, Jeanne and her fellow Rosies were collectively awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the nation’s highest civilian honors. It recognized the millions of American women whose labor, sacrifice and determination helped secure victory in World War II. Ottumwa Radio’s account of Jeanne’s life

In retirement, Jeanne was far more than a surviving Rosie. She was family.

She traveled repeatedly to Hawaiʻi to share her remarkable story, inspire students and ensure that the sacrifices made on the Home Front would never be forgotten. Her radiant smile, generous heart and boundless enthusiasm touched everyone she encountered.

Jeanne possessed a special gift for encouraging young girls, reminding them that no dream was too large and no obstacle too great. Through both her words and her example, she inspired them to pursue lives of courage, service and purpose.

Jeanne has now taken her final flight, but her legacy will not fade.

For the Boomers, the estates of our own Greatest Generation were settled with astonishing collective speed more than a decade ago. Jeanne’s passing is therefore a piercing reminder of what her generation accomplished—and of our obligation to carry their memory and their torch through times that are once again perilous.

Tonight, however, we will leave the perilous news outside.

This space belongs to Jeanne.

Cue the music. One final dance-off for one of the last Rosies.

Rest in peace, Jeanne Gibson.