Donald Lee Gibbs

Donald was born February 14, 1955 in Hampton, Virginia, son of Irwin Gibbs and Vivian Gibbs of South Dakota. He graduated from Pinecrest High School in Southern Pines, North Carolina then joined the Air Force after graduation. After retiring from the Air Force, he moved to Southern Pines where he had various jobs while working at Fort Bragg. He began military duty at Pope Air Force Base and was promoted to Sr. Master Sgt. of 53rd APS. The Commanding Officer, Capt. John R. Ritner described Don as a prolific writer who accomplished much during his tenure. He helped his unit win the award Outstanding Aerial Port Squadron. He also worked along with 82nd Airborne during Desert Storm/Shield. Don was recognized as Component Outstanding Non Commissioned Officer and held office of First Sgt. of 53rd MAPS, Pope AFB.

Don was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was a Christian who witnessed to all who would listen and an active member of First Baptist Church, Shallotte. He loved to fish even though times were not so profitable. Don had a giving heart to those in need and helped anyone in need financially or other. The nicknames for Don were Poppy, the favored, DonGyver, because if it was broken, a piece of tape, rubber band, gum wrapper, or straw could fix it.

Many have sent regards, letters, and calls to tell him how much they appreciated him over the years. He will be greatly missed.

In addition to his parents, survivors include his wife of 44 years, Sherol Shelton Gibbs of Supply; children, Kristy Webb of Berea, Kentucky and Clint Gibbs and wife Emily of Richmond, Kentucky; brothers, Mike Gibbs and wife Patty of Sioux City, Iowa, Larry Gibbs and wife June of Oak Ridge, Tennessee; three grandchildren, Rebekah, George, and Kaylor; several nieces, nephews, grand nieces, and grand nephews.

Services will be held in Kentucky.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to SECU Hospice of Brunswick, 955 Mercy Lane, Bolivia, North Carolina 28422 or Wounded Warriors.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.shallottefunerals.com for the Gibbs family.