James Gilbert Gibbs

It is with heartfelt sadness that we share the passing of Jim Gibbs on Tuesday, February 24, following a courageous battle with a high grade neuroendocrine tumor in his pancreas. He was surrounded by love at home, with his wife Susan and daughter Tawana by his side.

Mr. and Mrs. Gibbs made Champion Hills their home in 2015, relocating from their ranch in Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico. As Social Members, they quickly became an engaged and valued part of the community. Married for 36 years, they built a life centered around loyal friendships and shared adventures.

Mr. Gibbs had a deep appreciation for a well-prepared meal and lively conversation. Many will remember his blue-rare burger with four slices of tomato, a delicious plate of calamari, or the evenings when he would bring in his own carefully selected steak for the kitchen to prepare. A Bushmills or Redbreast on the rocks often accompanied stories and laughter among friends. He valued quality - in ingredients, in craftsmanship, and in the people around him.

A proud Texan born in Big Spring and a graduate of Texas Tech University, Mr. Gibbs carried with him a steady West Texas pragmatism and sharp intellect. He and Mrs. Gibbs enjoyed cooking, entertaining, sourcing locally grown produce and meats. He had a passion for copper smithing, blacksmithing, ranch life, and Jeep adventures - proudly collecting the small rubber ducks that found their way onto his dashboard. Most recently, he delighted in surprising Mrs. Gibbs with an English Cocker Spaniel at Christmas, Gracie.

Professionally, Mr. Gibbs brought not only commitment but expertise. A civil engineer specializing in water resources, he designed water and wastewater infrastructure throughout his distinguished career and served as President and CEO of Wilson & Company for 20 years. His knowledge and steady leadership proved invaluable to Champion Hills as the community navigated important infrastructure planning and Waste Water Treatment Plant initiatives.

Deeply committed to stewardship and service, Mr. Gibbs served on the Champion Hills POA Board from 2023–2025. He also dedicated his time and expertise to numerous committees, including the Architectural Review Committee (2020–2025), Roads & Landscaping (2021–2022), the Ad Hoc Committee for Waste Water Treatment Plant Improvements (2021–2025), the Real Estate Committee (2024–2025), and the Welcome & Orientation Committee (2024–2025).

Mr. Gibbs also proudly served on the Vestry as Junior Warden at St. Johns in the Wilderness.

Above all, Mr. Gibbs was intelligent, principled, and steady. He was a thoughtful leader, a loyal friend, and a man who cared deeply about the people and the future of Champion Hills. He approached both life and service with integrity and strength. His presence, insight, and friendship will be deeply missed, and our community is better for the time he shared with us.

All are welcome to attend the service, which will be held on Thursday, March 12 at 2:00 p.m. at The Episcopal Church of St. John in the Wilderness in Flat Rock. A reception will follow at the church.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Mrs. Gibbs and the entire family during this difficult time. May we honor his life by remembering the example he set, the kindness he extended, and the joy he brought to those around him.