Jerry Gibbons

Jerry Gibbons peacefully passed away on February 19, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on April 26, 1942, to the late John and Blanche Gibbons, Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 40 years, Carolee Gibbons, on August 20, 2005, and by his second beloved wife, Barb Burgess, on October 25, 2022.

Jerry leaves behind three children, Jeffrey, Steven, and Danny as well as six grandchildren, Justin, Madeleine, Brooke, Megan, Carter, and Luke. He is also survived by three wonderful daughters-in-law, Stephanie, Marina, and Mary.

Jerry lived a life defined by devotion to his faith, his family, his business, and the passions that brought him joy. He grew up on the west side of Detroit, attending Redford High School before continuing his education at Henry Ford Community College, where he earned his associate’s degree. Though he had a deep love for flying and once dreamed of pursuing a career with United Airlines, Jerry chose a different path— one rooted in loyalty, responsibility, and family. He stayed close to home to work alongside his father, John. Together, they founded J.C. Gibbons Manufacturing in 1959.

Their journey began with humble beginnings. Working seven days a week to support their family, Jerry and his dad built a business that now stands in its 67th year. After 41 successful years in Detroit, J.C. Gibbons moved its operations to a 22,000-square-foot facility in Livonia in 2000. Today, the company continues to thrive, led by two of Jerry’s sons, Jeff and Danny, carrying forward the legacy he and John established.

Jerry’s life was also filled with pursuits that made him feel most alive. He loved the freedom of the sky, flying in his Cessna airplane N6639A, the open road on his motorcycle, weekend cruises and car shows with his rebuilt ’57 Chevy, and the adventures he found behind the wheel of his RV. He traveled from coast to coast and into Mexico and Canada, amassing more than 70,000 miles while splitting his time between Michigan and Arizona. Jerry was also an avid scuba diver, enjoying hundreds of dives and bringing along his two sons, Steven and Danny, whenever he could. These were far more than hobbies, they were expressions of his independence, curiosity, and love of adventure.

Jerry cherished his role as a father and grandfather. He supported his three boys in all their pursuits and attended countless events for both his children and grandchildren. His legacy lives on in his family through their faith in Jesus Christ, in the company he built with his father, and in the countless memories shared with family and friends. Jerry was once told by a dear friend, “Jerry, you have never met a stranger.” It wasn’t just a compliment, it was the truest thing about him. He greeted every person with the same easy warmth, as if they had been friends for years.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visitation on Thursday, February 26, from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48152.

Jerry will lie in state on Friday, February 27, from 9:30 am to 10:30 am at Rosedale Gardens Presbyterian Church, 9601 Hubbard St, Livonia, MI 48150, followed by a service beginning at 10:30 am. Jerry will be laid to rest at Glen Eden Memorial Park. Please share memories with the family on our website by clicking on “add a memory” below.

In lieu of flowers, donations are appreciated to the Kirk Gibson Foundation. Checks may be addressed to: 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 185, Farmington Hills, MI 48334.