John R Gibbons

John R. Gibbons, 65, of Tenafly, NJ, passed away on Thursday, August 21, 2025 surrounded by his family. Born on August 25, 1959, in Bellefonte, PA, and raised in Big Flats, New York Finger Lakes Region, John was the beloved son of the late Joseph J. and Virginia Smith Gibbons. He graduated from Horseheads High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Tulsa. He later received a Master of Arts in Public Policy Studies from the University of Chicago. John went on to build a long and distinguished career across government, finance, international organizations, cultural institutions, and corporate industries. John and his wife, Hilda, were dedicated partners for over 25 years, and together they raised two children: Emily Gibbons and Thomas Solari. He was a devout husband and father, always putting his family first. John was deeply committed to his faith, and he was an active member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church, where he volunteered at the Office of Concern Food Pantry at Saint Cecilia's, always helping those in need. Outside of his professional and community life, John was passionate about music, and an enthusiastic record collector from the eras of Swing, Jazz and 1940s Big Bands. He was always eager to share his love and knowledge with anyone about music, trains, planes, architecture and history. John is survived by his loving wife, Hilda, and his children, Emily and Thomas. He was predeceased by his brother, Jeffery R. Gibbons. Services Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 3:00 to 6:00 pm at Barrett Leber Funeral Home, 148 Dean Dr, Tenafly, NJ 07670. A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 1:00 pm at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church, 10 County Rd, Tenafly, NJ 07670. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to causes close to John's heart: • START II – 135 Cedar Lane, Englewood, NJ 07631, https://sites.google.com/view/save-the-animals-rescue-team-2/about-us • Office of Concern Food Pantry – 55 West Demarest Avenue, Englewood, NJ 07631 https://www.officeofconcern.com/donate