In Memory

Frederick M. Gibby

Frederick M. Gibby

      Frederick M. "Fred" Gibby

Fred passed away on Friday, May 29, 2020 in Battle Creek, Michigan. He was a native of Mobile, Alabama and a resident of St. Joseph, Michigan. He attended Dudley Elementary where he played Little League baseball and Northwestern Junior High where he played football and sang in the chorus. He graduated Battle Creek Central High School where he was a member of the Math Club, Spanish Club, and Optimist Youth Appreciation Week. Fred attended the University of Michigan for one year. Anyone who knew Fred knew he was a lifelong diehard fan of Michigan sports, especially football and basketball. He received his Associates degree in Business at Kellogg Community College where he played basketball and was an avid tennis player, continuing to play those sports into adulthood. Fred then transferred to Western Michigan University where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration with a minor in Accounting. On August 14, 1971, he married the love of his life, Loretta Christensen, at First Congregational Church in Battle Creek; she survives. Fred worked in Human Resources for Whirlpool Corporation and then at Lakeland Regional Hospital as Vice President for Human Resources in St. Joseph and Director of Human Resources in Niles. Fred was a man of faith. He loved his God and Savior, Jesus Christ; in his glory especially when worshipping through song. He participated in multiple choirs from his childhood at Second Missionary Baptist Church in Battle Creek, through adulthood at Pilgrim Congregational UCC in St. Joseph. He was a Charter member of Pilgrim Congregational UCC, and over the years served as Moderator, Trustee, and Diaconate member. Fred was a moderator and representative to the Southwest Association of Michigan Conference of UCC, and a member of the Church and Ministry Committee for the Southwest Association Michigan Conference and UCC Board of Directors. Fred was heavily involved in his community and was supportive of many missions. He was on the Board of Directors for Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra, Boys and Girls Club of Berrien and Cass County, Y.M.C.A., LINK Crisis Center, Samaritan Center, Berrien County Cancer Society, Out Center, United Way, and Cathedral School of Arts. Fred was a member of St. Joseph Kiwanis Club, Benton Harbor Sunrise Rotary, Band of Brethren in Christ, and Stewardship Board. Fred was on the Personnel Committee of Curious Kids' Museum, volunteered in Probation 5th District Court, served as Delegate to General Synod in Oakland, CA, Delegate to General Synod in Columbus, OH, and sang with the Lake Michigan College Choir in Benton Harbor. Fred was a loving son, son-in-law, husband, father, brother, uncle and Grampy to his precious grandson, Aidan. In his spare time, Fred was a voracious reader. His smile could brighten a room and he was a role model for young Black men. Fred's patient and wise counsel, compassion, kindness, love and support for both family and community was evident to everyone who knew him and he will be missed by many. In addition to Loretta, survivors included Fred’s children, Nicole Gibby Munguia and Brian (Lydia) Gibby; grandchild Aidan Gibby; siblings, Deborah English, Meredith (Rudy) Brown, James Gibby Jr. and Zannie Gibby, and sister-in-law Lorraine Christensen; nieces and nephews, Arik (Nadine) Brown, Lynsey English, and Erin and Christopher Evans; great-niece and nephew Alexis and Joshua Brown. Fred was preceded in death by his parents. He leaves behind a great legacy and his memory will live on.

Information from Battle Creek Enquirer, Battle Creek, Michigan online on June 5, 2020; and Fred’s daughter Nicole



 
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06/15/20 12:25 PM #4    

James Wilcox

Fred was a friend to all, when he called about the reunion it was like we had talked the day before and it was 50 years. An amazing man

06/22/20 10:42 AM #5    

Arnold Williams

Fred and I grew up on the north side of Battle Creek always had this great smile. Always willing to help the ones not as smart as him.. Fred would help anyone the best he could. Going to miss him very much as will his classmates. Rest In Peace 

 

 


06/23/20 08:12 AM #6    

Linda Beers (Aydlott)

Even though I didn't know Fred very well, I still remember his beautiful smile.  He always smiled when we passed through the halls at BCHS.  His goodness beamed through his eyes.  He will be missed dearly.  We have lost a bright soul on our side, but Heaven has gained an added brilliance.  Blessed Be dear Fred, may those left behind find Peace and Solace in knowing you lived a good life, often giving selflessly to others, even in your humble and genuine smile.


06/23/20 06:56 PM #7    

William Hubbart

Right along with the other classmates Fred will always be remembered by his great smile, I got to know Fred by our Northwestern days and then at Central, he will be missed greatly, rest in peace Fred !

 


06/24/20 07:24 AM #8    

Ken Long

I did not know Fred very well. But looking at his life accomplishments, They were all as tall and good as he was.

06/28/20 03:49 PM #9    

Martha Hoffman

Fred will be missed. His energy was so positive all the time, you just felt better when he was around. I enjoyed having many classes with him throughout the years and he had the  ability to stimulate a conversation or debate and keep things interesting. Good-bye, you are a sweet and gentle soul.


07/14/20 09:10 PM #10    

Robert Humbarger

I first met Fred at about age 9 when I joined a Little League baseball team with Fred at Bailey Park.  We played together for several years and I really enjoyed my time with him.  We reunited again in high school and played intramural basketball together for several years and shared many classes.  Fred was one of the nicest, most sincere people I have ever met.  I talked at length with him at our recent reunions and I was so pleased that he had been so successful in life.

I was absolutely shocked to learn of his recent death.  Although he and I did not stay in contact, I have always counted him as one of my friends and I will miss him greatly.  He had a wonderful heart and was one of those people that one can really be glad crossed one's path in life.

I hope that when I remembrance ceremony is scheduled, I will learn of it so I may attend.  I offer my sincere and deepest condolences to Loretta and all of his family.  His death is a loss of us all.


07/16/20 11:09 AM #11    

Jeff Brackett

We were all fortunate to have known Fred.  He set a wonderful example for all of us.  RIP Fred.


08/14/20 12:19 PM #12    

Robert Davidson

So saddened to learn of Fred's passing. We had many classes together through high school years and spent a lot of time together on the basketball court. The latter was mostly on outdoor school playground courts. Remember going over to his house afterward many times for ice water and conversation. Enjoyed so much catching up with him at the last class reunion. Was so much looking forward to visiting with him again at our 55' this summer. You will be greatly missed Fred.


03/19/21 12:01 PM #13    

Craig Bundy

Fred was always friendly and easy to talk to. He just made you feel good. RIP. 


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