Rev. Martin Everett Gibbs

He was born February 14, 1940 in Cedar Rapids, IA to Willard H. and Garnet June Gibbs. He received degrees from Grinnell College and from Andover Newton Theological Seminary.

He was happy and proud to have served four unique churches during the course of his pastoral ministry. The first was the North Windham Union Church, Windham, Maine; where he was ordained in 1967. A highlight there was leading the church's youth group on a weeklong mission work trip to Puerto Rico. Next, while serving the North Madison Congregational Church, Madison, CT during the 1970's, he was chosen to be the Chairman of the Board of the Madison ABC Program. He also began a 50 year "career" as a high school football official with the New Haven Football Officials Association.

He moved to the First Congregational Church, Ansonia, CT in 1981. In collaboration with a local Episcopal priest, they planned and implemented an emergency shelter for the homeless. This facility is now known as the Spooner House. He concluded his ministry at the First Church of Christ Congregational of Clinton, Ct. He was proud to shepherd a $1.5 million renovation project.

Marty was able to serve as Worshipful Master of Jeptha Lodge #95 AF & AM, Clinton, CT in 2000, then as the Lodge's Secretary for 16 years.

Rev. Gibbs retired from active pastoral ministry in 2002. He continued to be available to colleagues by assisting as a guest preacher for Sunday services and providing local "bridge ministries" for short periods of time. During this same time, he was able to work for Swan Funeral Home conducting funeral services; a pleasant arrangement that lasted for 14 years.

Martin is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sonja, whom he met when they were both freshman at Grinnell College.

He is also survived by his son Eric (Susan); and granddaughter Autumn; his brother Gordon (Barbara); sister-in-law Lynne Albright (Curt); and many grand nieces and nephews.

Together, Martin and Sonja were able to travel the world with family and friends. They had the unique opportunity to build houses with President Jimmy Carter for Habitat for Humanity in South Africa and Georgia.

Burial is private. A service of remembrance will be held on Saturday, March 22nd, at 11:00 am at the First Church of Christ Congregational, 55 Church Rd, Clinton, CT. A reception will follow in Fellowship Hall.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the First Church of Christ Congregational