Tim E Tibbits

In Loving Memory of Tim Elphonso Tibbits
Tim, a kind and selfless soul, passed away on February 2, 2025, at the age of 83. Born in Miami, FL, he spent the early years of his life in Hialeah, FL. Tim was the oldest of seven siblings, so he had to start working at a very young age to help provide for the family by managing the Double H Ranch, giving riding lessons and training horses, before moving to Bonifay, FL where he worked for Bowen Hardware. Later, Tim settled in Southport, FL, when he married Vivian Williams. Tim worked as a lineman for the first cable company, Antenna Vision, which later became Clearview Cable. Tim tirelessly climbed poles providing cable all throughout Bay County and other surrounding counties as well. Always working odd jobs on the side to provide a good life for his family. Tim later obtained his plumbing license and started his own plumbing business, with his son Timothy and father William(Tim Sr.) by his side. He continued his lifelong dedication to helping others by doing pro bono work for under privileged families. He would give the shirt off his back to a person in need. As a skilled and hardworking plumber, he took great pride in his craft. Tim never left a job unfinished, a good joke to tell, which captivated all that knew him. Tim was forced to retire at age 79 due to health reasons beyond his control.
Beyond his career, he had a deep passion for horse training and stable management, finding joy and fulfillment in working with horses. He also loved the thrill of spearfishing and scuba diving by embracing the adventure of the open water. Tim loved birdwatching as well. His hobbies reflected his hardworking spirit, patience, and love for nature. But most of all, his favorite past time was taking his family on a boat ride to Shell Island and camping out.
Tim was proceeded in death by his mother, Reverend Nellie Mae Tibbits,(as a child Tim benefited by being raised by a mother that instilled in him a strong Christian faith and Biblical values), father William E. Tibbits, sister Nelda Deuerling, and brother Terrence Tibbits. Above all, he was a devoted father and is survived by his two beloved children, Timothy Tibbits and Melanie Tibbits Austin, grand children, Michael Austin, Brittney Austin, Trent Tibbits and Ethan Tibbits, four great- grandchildren, Kylie Austin, Aubrie Austin, Amelia Austin and Michael Austin, Jr., and his cherished sisters, Sharon Tibbits, Valarie Zion, Polly Applewhite and Lottie Tibbits.
The passing of Tim has brought us insurmountable sadness that could never truly be expressed. Knowing and loving him has been our joy and privilege. He was one of a kind, handsome, generous, and possessed a brilliant sense of humor with a glittering spirit that everyone loved. His love, wisdom, and unwavering support will be forever missed nor forgotten by his family and all who knew him.
A celebration of his life will be held on at Kent Forest Lawn Funeral Home on February 10, 2025, visitation at 10 AM and funeral service at 11 AM. A special thanks to all Emerald Coast Hospice employees for their love and support during this time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Emerald Coast Hospice.
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