Andrea Gibson Death: Poet and Activist Passes Away

The world of poetry is sad to hear about the Andrea Gibson death. This beloved American poet, activist, and former Colorado Poet Laureate passed away on July 14, 2025. Gibson was 49 years old. They died peacefully at their home in Boulder, Colorado. This happened after a brave four-year fight with ovarian cancer. Their passing is a big loss for writers and the LGBTQ+ community. They leave behind strong art and a history of fighting for what’s right. News of the Andrea Gibson death has deeply affected fans worldwide.

Andrea Gibson’s Life and Major Achievements

Andrea Gibson was born on August 13, 1975, in Calais, Maine. They moved to Colorado in the late 1990s and lived in Boulder from 1999. They quickly became well-known for their honest and powerful spoken-word poetry. Gibson’s work openly talked about gender, politics, fairness in society, and LGBTQ+ issues. Their words touched many different people. Their poems explored identity, love, mental health, and their own journey with cancer.

In 2023, Gibson became the Colorado Poet Laureate. They took this important job even with their health problems. They wanted to help poets who were sick or had disabilities. This made the world of poetry more open to everyone.

Noteworthy Works and Accolades

Before their passing, Andrea Gibson wrote seven poetry books. Some well-known ones include “You Better Be Lightning” (2021), “Lord of the Butterflies” (2018), and “Take Me With You” (2018). They also made seven spoken-word albums. Their unique way of performing was very popular. They earned many awards for their work and activism:

• They won the Denver Grand Slam four times.
• They were the Women of the World Poetry Slam champion in 2008.
• They won the Independent Publisher’s Award twice.
• They were a Goodreads Choice Awards finalist three times.
• In 2024, they received an Academy of American Poets Laureate Fellowship.

Gibson said they were genderqueer and used “they/them” pronouns. They strongly supported the queer community. Their art was deeply linked to their activism and queer identity. This made their voice very important for many people looking for understanding.

Andrea Gibson’s Health Journey and Final Thoughts

The details of the Andrea Gibson death are connected to a long fight with ovarian cancer. They learned they had cancer in August 2021. Their journey included surgery and chemotherapy. The cancer came back in 2022 and 2023.

Gibson and their wife, Megan Falley, openly shared their story. Their journey was shown in the award-winning film “Come See Me in the Good Light.” This film, directed by Ryan White, won a big award at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. It will be shown on Apple TV+ this fall. Gibson also helped write a song for the film, “Salt Then Sour Then Sweet,” with Sara Bareilles and Brandi Carlile.

Even with huge challenges, Gibson had a deep view on illness and dying. They famously said, “When I leave this world, whether it’s 60 years from now, I wouldn’t want anyone to say I lost some battle. I’ll be a winner that day.” In their last moments, they said they truly loved their life, “I fucking loved my life.” This peaceful passing is part of the story of Andrea Gibson death.

“Love Letter From the Afterlife”: A Poetic Farewell

Just before their passing, Andrea Gibson wrote a moving poem called “Love Letter From the Afterlife.” It offered a comforting and hopeful idea of what happens after life. The poem included these lines:

“Dying is the opposite of leaving. When I left my body, I did not go away. That portal of light was not a portal to elsewhere, but a portal to here. I am more here than I ever was before.”

The Lasting Impact of Andrea Gibson

Many people around the world have honored the Andrea Gibson death. Friends, fans, and other poets shared how Gibson’s words brought comfort, hope, and even saved lives. Many LGBTQ+ people found self-acceptance through their poetry. For those facing serious illnesses, Gibson’s thoughts on death brought great comfort.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis praised Gibson. He called them “truly one of a kind.” He also noted their “special ability to connect with the many different poetry lovers of Colorado.”

Andrea Gibson leaves behind their loving wife, Megan Falley. They were with family and friends in their last moments. This shows the love and community they built throughout their life. Their work will keep inspiring and touching people for many years to come.