Jerry W. Gibson

Jerry W. Gibson, 71, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep April 7, 2018.Jerry was born in Elkhart, IN on November 21, 1946, to the late James B. and Mary Jane (Bumpus) Gibson.On June 18, 1966, Jerry married his soulmate, Linda Lee (Howe) Gibson. Jerry and Linda were married three weeks shy of 51 years when Linda died unexpectedly May 29, 2017.Jerry and Linda are survived by their children: Melissa (Steve) Ryker of Edwardsburg, and Douglas (Tim Byler) Gibson of South Bend. Also left to cherish his memory are his granddaughters: Kaylee and Courtney Ryker and three grand-puppies: Stewart, Stella and Finley J, and loving inlaws, nieces, nephews and friends.Jerry was an amazing man with a servant’s heart of gold. Jerry and Linda were the model of pure, true love. Jerry lived first for his wife, then his children, grandchildren, grand puppies and anyone else that he identified in need. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Jerry always put his family first.Aside from spending time with his children and grandchildren, Jerry enjoyed hunting and recently started preparing weekly meals for Melissa and Doug.Jerry retired from Siemans Corporation, formerly known as Bayer and Miles Laboratories. It was so important to Jerry that Linda be able to stay home when Melissa and Doug were children that he worked multiple jobs. Jerry simultaneously held positions with Miles, Excel, the Edwardsburg Ambulance, Police and Fire Departments. Jerry served multiple offices within the fire department, including Assistant Chief. Jerry would have celebrated 52 years as an active member on the fire department this June.Jerry and Linda were pillars of their community and will be deeply missed. Jerry leaves behind a legacy of caring and compassion in service to others which he has passed along to both of his children. Melissa and Doug rejoice knowing that he was welcomed into Heaven with Linda’s huge smile, infectious laugh and open arms!Services have been entrusted to McGann Hay Funerals / Cremations / Gatherings, Granger Chapel, 13260 SR 23 enter off Cherry Rd. There will be a visitation at the Granger Chapel Wednesday 4/11/2018 from 4-8pm. The funeral will take place at 11:00am Thursday at Hope United Methodist Church located at 69941 Elkhart Rd.; Edwardsburg, MI 49112. There will be a viewing from 10-11 am at the church. Following the funeral his casket will be transported on an antique firetruck to Edwardsburg Cemetery for the graveside service.After the services, the family welcomes family and friends to attend a luncheon at the Edwardsburg Fire Department at 69910 M-62, Edwardsburg, MI 49112. Memorial contributions can be made to the Edwardsburg Food Pantry. The pantry is located at 24832 US-12, Edwardsburg, MI 49112. To share memories or to send your private condolences to the family log on to: www.McGannHay.com