Hirofumi Chibana

Hirofumi (Fumi) Chibana passed away April 9, 2026 after a brief illness at Sacred Heart Hospital. Fumi was born February 14, 1969 at Kadena, Okinawa, Japan and was the son of Chiyoko Chibana. Hirofumi arrived in the United States in 1982 along with his mother, step-father, sister and brother. He attended Escambia Westgate in Pensacola after which he joined Pensacola Developmental Center (PDC) where he remained until his passing. Fumi spent the majority of his days as a laundry assistant, a job he did well and enjoyed for many years. When not assisting with laundry, he was often found in a PDC office where he was quite well known as a helper with phone calls. He also managed to assign himself as the “official signer” for packages arriving at PDC. Fumi had a very happy disposition combined with a devlish sense of humor which endeared him to most and he became well loved throughout his time at PDC.

Hirofumi is survived by his mother Chiyoko Pautz, step-father Bradley Pautz, brother Christopher Pautz, sister Ayako Chibana, her husband Dale Nutter and their children Kento, Mika, and Sachika.

The viewing for Hirofumi Chibana will be held at the Oak Lawn Funeral Home, 619 New Warrington Road, on Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 10:30 -11:30, followed by a funeral service at 11:30. A reception for Hirofumi will be held at the Pensacola Developmental Center, One Villa Drive beginning at 1 PM.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to your favorite charity.