Gifford Dean Massey

Gifford Dean Massey, aged 93, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle and grandfather, passed away January 26, 2024 in Roseville, California. Born in Truman, Arkansas in 1930, he was the son of the late Leland and Verdie Massey. In 1956, Gifford married the love of his life, Marion Massey, and shared 65 beautiful years with her. He was the father of Eric Massey, Kimbra English, Debbie Prekeges and Dena Massey, as well as the proud grandfather of: Sky, Jeremiah and Alycia Massey; Steven Ross and Amanda Hawkins; Alexandra and Adam Prekeges; Christopher and Isaiah Marti; and great grandfather to Oliver James Chin. Gifford is survived by his children, grandchildren, great grandchild, sister Pat Marcellin and his brother Dale Massey in addition to his many cousins, nieces and nephews. Gifford was predeceased by his parents, his wife Marion, brothers Clifton, Bill, and Joe, and his grandson Nicolas Marti.

In 1951, Gifford joined the United States Air Force and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1953 and went to college in Bakersfield where he met his wife, Marion. He studied photography and later used this skill in his early career at Aerojet, a rocket and missile propulsion manufacturer in Rancho Cordova. He embraced the principles of fairness and fought tirelessly to ensure that every individual, regardless of background, received equal treatment. This passion led him to become involved in unions and later as a representative and arbitrator for CSEA (California School Employees Association) and Butte County.

His volunteerism reflected this principle as he worked tirelessly for 13 years to fight for the incorporation of Citrus Heights in the early 1980’s and was an active member of CHIP (Citrus Heights Incorporation Project). Long after Citrus Heights became a city, he continued to attend weekly city council meetings and volunteered in many other areas. In 2015 he was involved in R.E.A.C.H (Residents’ Empowerment Association of Citrus Heights) and was the Director at Large for Area 9, working on the Creek Corridor Trail Project advocating for accessibility. He was honored by the city in 2010 when he received the Senior Citizen Volunteer of the Year award.

Gifford loved to read and pursued all forms of education throughout his life. His lifelong passion for photography and later technology led him to become the family's historian and documentarian. Gifford never missed any of his children’s or grandchildren’s events and could always be found sitting on the bleachers or in the audience, quietly cheering them on. In moments of joy or challenge, Gifford offered a quiet reassurance and a sense of stability. His calm demeanor and steady presence were a source of strength for his family. Humble in both words and actions, Gifford never sought the spotlight. He lived his life well, and his actions cleared a path for his children and grandchildren to follow. He will be missed dearly but is finally home with his beautiful wife.