Born on February 26, 1929, Jamael was the youngest of seven children born to Lebanese immigrants, Assad and Annie (Ferris) Libbus. His father died suddenly when he was five weeks old but he grew up in the Libbus Block where he was surrounded by a loving and supportive extended family. In his early years, Jamael assisted his mother, Annie, in the family business on the Gazza Strip on Townsend Street. For 37 years, Jamael was a bartender, waiter and “bouncer” at the Steel City Tavern where he was respected and admired by all patrons. Jamael kept his family and friends well entertained with his stories about life at the Libbus Block and experiences at the tavern.
Jamael’s happiest times were spent fishing, hunting, playing tarbish and spending time with his family, especially at the trailer in Margaree Forks. Jamael was a chartered member of the St. Joseph’s Lebanese and Syrian Benevolent Society. He was also a member of St. Theresa’s Parish for over 50 years.
Jamael is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, the former Stella Shaheen, his sons: Joe (Linda), Doug (Thelma), Billy (Margaret) and daughter-in-law Madonna Libbus. He was a wonderful “Giddy” to his five grandchildren: Chandra (Chris), Carissa, Jordan (Danielle), Jamael (Kendra), Samantha (Carter) and to his two great grandchildren Brooklynn and Lena. Jamael is also survived by his brother Kayo (Morena) Libbus, sisters-in-law Martha Jewer and Ellen Shaheen and brother-in-law Don Dunlop. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews who all had a special bond with him.
Jamael was predeceased by his son Ronnie ‘Kibby’, brother Alex (Jenny) and sisters Fanny (Charlie) Aboud, Marena (Joe) Garabb, Freda (Ross) Carnahan and Rose (Joe) Lane.
Visitation will be held at TW Curry Parkview Chapel, 755 George St., on Thursday, Sep. 9 from 2-4 and 7-9. A Funeral Mass will take place at St. Theresa’s Church, 381 Whitney Ave. on Friday, Sep. 10 at 11:00am with Fr. Dennis Lamey and Fr. Albert Maroun concelebrants. For those unable to attend the service will be livestreamed via TW Curry’s Facebook page. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.twcurry.com.
