James Gibbs, Jr.

Gibbs, Jr., James, 84, of Springfield, passed away Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at home. The son of James W. and Suna Mae (Woods) Gibbs, born November 25, 1940, in Johnson County, Kentucky. His family moved to Ohio in 1943. He graduated from Triad High School in 1959. He was drafted and served his country in the army and was stationed in Korea, leading him to become a lifelong advocate for peace. As a veteran, Jim strongly opposed open access to firearms and gun violence. He graduated from Clark Technical College in 1972 with an associate’s degree in nursing and worked as a registered nurse at London Correctional Institution for 25 years.

His parents preceded him in death. James is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mary Anne (Martin) Gibbs; son, James F. Gibbs; daughters, Rita (Michael) Shaffer and Mary (David) Collins; and his three grandchildren, Dora and Calvin Collins and Paul Shaffer. He is also survived by his brother, John L. Gibbs; his sisters-in-law, Catherine (Robert) Shumate and Anne (Albert) Woyat; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

James was a lifelong learner. He played guitar all his life, and in his seventies learned the banjo. He was a prolific songwriter, composing clever and poignant songs until his final years. He was raised in the Baptist Church but was later baptized Catholic at St. Joseph. He went on to practice Orthodoxy. Additionally, he began studying Buddhism while in Korea and continued to study and teach it throughout his life.

Jim was a staunch advocate for social justice and equal rights for all. As a nurse, especially one who spent his career caring for the incarcerated, he was a strong advocate for health care for all. Jim consistently modeled unconditional love and acceptance of all people.

A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.