James P. Gibbs

Today we announce the passing of our beloved father, James P. “Pops” Gibbs on Thursday, April 26, 2018 from his earthly home to his heavenly, forever home with his Lord and Savior. We rejoice he is no longer in pain and is enjoying a new body. He was born in 1933 in Knoxville, achieved the rank of Eagle Scout during his years at Young High School. He served in the Navy as a medical corpsman and was a UT alumnus. For years Pops served as a volunteer reader at Bonny Kate Elementary, helping the 2nd grade. He was the epitome of the family man, even attending almost every sporting event his 4 grandchildren played in from 2000-2012, including high school football, soccer, & volleyball games. Throughout his life, he loved to go dancing, go to the mountains with family, and even go to the latest new movie. Pops was retired from the US Postal Service. He accepted Christ as an adult and lived a life of example for all who knew him. He was known for his dry wit but was always willing to offer a helping hand. He was a long-time member of Colonial Heights United Methodist Church.

He is preceded in death by his first love and high school sweetheart, Alyce Hood Gibbs, parents Burris and Jessie Gibbs, sister, Rose Ann Brawn, father in law, Haven Hood and adored mother in law, Dora Hood, sister in law, Dr. Evelyn Muldowny. He is survived in life by his 2 daughters, Janice Zartman and Karen Myers, husband David Myers; grandson Jay Zartman and his wife, Megan, great grandchildren Graham, Liv, and Mercy; grandson Kevin Zartman and his wife, Shannan; granddaughters Kelly Myers and Katie Myers. The second love of his life, Sue Fowler. And a very special sister in law, Polly Lee. Nephews: Buddy Lee, wife Lisa; Dr. Richard Lee wife Pam; Steven Muldowny, wife Amy; Dr. David Muldowny, wife Susie, and George Brawn.

The family would like to thank the entire team at the UT Cancer Institute at UT Hospital and the hospice team at Amedisys. All the doctors, nurses, support staff, & volunteers have been a true blessing and help in this trying time for Pops and the whole family. A very special thank you to Karen and David for opening their home to him and caring for him for the last nine months.

Visitation will be Saturday, April 28, 2018 from 3:00pm until 5:00pm at Colonial Heights Methodist Church with a service following at 5:00pm, Rev. Daniel Ogle officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Colonial Heights Youth Group and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Condolences may be offered at www.berryfuneralhome.com.