William H. Gibeau

On January 5, 2025, at the age of 82, in North Myrtle Beach, SC, surrounded by loved ones, William “Bill” Herbert Gibeau followed his faith as the Holy Spirit knocked. The door was literally opened, peace entered the room, and he passed on into the arms of his Savior, Jesus Christ. Bill was born on June 18, 1942, in Syracuse, New York, where, as a young man, he discovered his passion for basketball and cars. In 1961, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, eventually transferring to the U.S. Air Force. His service brought him to North Myrtle Beach, SC, where he started his family and lived for 61 years. Throughout his life, Bill was a man of faith, strength, and deep love for his family. He worked hard and always put others first. Of his many endeavors, his favorite was owning and operating his bait and tackle shop, where he never met a stranger. He enjoyed sharing stories—especially about his days of drag racing and his military service on Johnston Island. Bill loved fishing, finding peace and joy at the lake in Santee, SC. However, his greatest joy was his five daughters, who were the center of his life. He was the best father and “Poppy,” steadfast in faith and rock solid for his girls and grandchildren, no matter the circumstances. In one of his final weeks, while gazing at the beach, Bill was asked what he thought about God. He replied, “God knows what He is doing.” Those who knew Bill and his family would agree— he raised his five daughters with a calm demeanor and unending patience, true blessings from the wisdom of God. His goofy sense of humor and ability to make everyone feel loved made him truly one of a kind. He will be deeply missed. Bill is survived by his daughters: Sherrie Gibeau Upchurch (Jimmy), Lorie Gibeau Gore (John), Christina Gibeau Trevathan, Angie Gibeau Griste (Bill), and Mindy Gibeau Juel; and his former spouse, Melva Price. His grandchildren: Lattie “Reece” Upchurch IV (Chrissy), Katee Spence (Josh), Brady Upchurch (McKenzie), Logan Coleman (Josh), Loren Griste, Christopher Gibeau, Megan Martin, and Courtney Gibeau. His great-grandchildren: Skyler Upchurch, Lattie Upchurch V, Elizabeth Spence, Averie Spence, Indiana Upchurch, Benny, Roywn Trevathan, Ema Coleman, Kylie Gibeau, Makayla Marcella, Chloe King, Macy Martin, and Bentley Pettit. His close nephew Walter McGarrity (Sally) and many other beloved nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert William Gibeau and Edna Smith Gibeau; his paternal grandparents, William H. Gibeau and Frances Gibeau; his maternal grandparents, Charles A. Smith and Ella Smith; his brother, Bernard Gibeau; his sister, Barbra McGarrity (Art); his grandson, William Forrest Upchurch; and his great-grandchildren, Morgan Coleman and Allie Coleman.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at Faith Wesleyan Church, 10615 SC-90, Little River,

SC 29566, on January 18, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. A family gathering will follow at the Sun Colony

Clubhouse, 100 Sun Colony Blvd., Longs, SC 29568.