Robert Bruce Tibbetts

Robert Bruce Tibbetts left this world on February 8th, 2025, at Culpeper Medical Center. He was a devoted husband, father, and beloved paw paw. Born on January 1st, 1951, to the late Mary Kelsey Tibbetts and Mark James Tibbetts, Bruce’s early years were spent in Blackwood, New Jersey.

At just 12 years old, during a family vacation to the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, he felt a stirring in his heart, realizing that Virginia would one day be his cherished home.

An Eagle Scout and Junior Assistant Scout Master, he dedicated his life to service and community. As a member of the Culpeper Presbyterian Church, he faithfully served as a Deacon. He proudly chaired the building and grounds committee at the Windmoore Foundation, was Co-Chairman of Culpeper Renaissance, and a past president of the Culpeper Jaycees. Additionally, he held the role of President of APPO.

Bruce spent his college years earning his degree in Blacksburg Virginia obtaining a Bachelors of Science from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, graduating in 1974.

Bruce found joy in hiking through the serene Shenandoah National Park or simply watching the sun dip below the valley in stunning hues. He had a passion for collecting model trains and was actively involved in the Northern Virginia S-Gaugers Club, participating in train shows for the Boy Scouts and at Walter Reed for disabled veterans. His love for craftsmanship shone through in his furniture-building and home-designing pursuits.

He embarked on his home-building business in 1979, a venture that spanned two fulfilling decades. In 1998, he began a new chapter as Director of Facilities at Woodberry Forest School.

Bruce is lovingly remembered by his wife of 51 years, Charlyne Tibbetts; his sister Jeanne Blatt (married to Rick Blatt) of Mays Landing, New Jersey; his two children, Ellen Gaskill of Winter Garden, Florida, and Mark Tibbetts of Henrico, Virginia. He leaves behind six adoring grandchildren: Matthew Gaskill, Brooklyne Gaskill, Declan Gaskill, Keeghan Gaskill, Myles Tibbetts, and Milo Tibbetts. He is also deeply missed by his best friend, Dr. Dan Yutronich, and his wife, Nancy, along with many other cherished friends and family.

Funeral services will be private.