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James Fail Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for James Fail
Carlos Cisneros
July 10, 2007
Barbara,
Words cant express our sympathy. For the short visits we had they we truly nothing but unforgetable. Gibby had a heart filled with gold and we will miss him.
Bill Roberts
July 5, 2007
Gibby was one of the nicest people one could ever meet. We had great times together and as Gibby would say, "right on mate". I certainly had my life enrichened by knowing Gibby. He was the epitome of kindness, just a super person. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Gibby, we love you. We will see you when we get there. Hold the fort down for us.
Sincerely,
Bill Roberts
jeffery wheelock
July 3, 2007
My first entry was incomplete. Gibby was much more than my friend. gibby took me somewhere I never thought I would go. April 2000 nssa east coastlongboard
championships. I did not have the funds to go. gibby sponsored the trip. his support not only paid the bill, It stoked me. I came out in fouth place,my personal best Thankyou Gib for A wonderful memory ,and the biggest trophy I will ever see in my days.We walked out of the holiday inn after the award ceremony and gibby asked me if he could carry it. I handed it to him and saw that gibby smile and new that it was our victory ! even though it was not first place me and gibby were on top of the world Gibby Fail was my friend and he was a man among men !!! I will never forget you. tiki jeff
Patricia Brewer
July 3, 2007
Barbara...
P'Cola Beach without seeing Gibby? Unimaginable. The beach without all the memories? Never happen. Much love to you.
Trish
Kimmie
June 25, 2007
Hey Miss Barbara,
I just wanted to thank you for allowing me the pleasure of viewing the gallery before you closed it for that is where I first met you and Gibby. First impressions are everything and I thought to myself that Gibby and Earl (a friend of my family gone nearly three years now) would make wonderful friends...now I know they are. Barbara, you are probably tired of hearing "sorry about your loss", or "if you need anything". If you want to talk to someone disconnected or just have fun........Let Marty know, he will hook us up. LOL
Ingrid and Tony Mellone
June 25, 2007
Gibby was a dear friend. He never asked for much, he just gave and gave. And he was as smart as he was simple. Man, do we miss him.
Robert Freeman
June 24, 2007
When I first met Gibby(that is how I thought of James)he threw his arms around me, and gave me a hug. I didn't know him as well as my brother did, yet when I was there he let me feel as if I were special to him. I hope I returned that feeling to him. I will miss Gibby very much. I am not a great person for showing my feelings so my wish is, that I hope all of us find bits of Gibby in each other. I can only make us better people.
Mark Anderson
June 23, 2007
Dear God, thank you for Gibby.We love you bradda. Mo betta now. After later santa rosa island kamaaina. peace and love ,comfort and blessings Barbara Mark and Peggy Anderson
Jean Harris
June 23, 2007
Barbara,
My sincere sympathy for your loss. I didn't know Gibby, but it was abundantly clear at today's Life Celebration that he was a unique and wonderful man and that you were the love of his life. Thank you and Gibby for your kindness and generosity to the local arts community.
fred esposito
June 23, 2007
Pigs Can Fly !
For the last few days, I have been trying to write a tribute to my friend Gibby,some special words
that would honor Gibby and who he was.I read all the other articles, all stating the obvious words we would use to describe our good friend Gibby.
But for me MY words just would not seem to come out.
Sure we all knew of Gibby's kindness,his love of life and his friends and
his big heart, but I wanted something different, something that the Gibblet would have agreed with.
Frustrated… I took a break from my computer and went out back to check the surf,which had gone flat early that morning,to my surprise as I got to the beach a perfect small ground swell was hitting my little sandbar..small but beautiful and no one out…anywhere!!
I thought this is great,I can sit out here catch some waves and the words will just come to me….it would be easy!!
Well of course this wasn’t the case.
Every time I was sitting there thinking about what to write…a set would come,and there I was on a perfect wave ..green and fast,then I would paddle back out and sit..waiting on the words…but then another wave would hit…then another.
I sat there thinking all of the funny times I had with Gibby,like the time I saw him wearing a cute little blue dress walking down the beach road after losing a bet..or the time he ran for Mayor with a campaign slogan IF PIGS COULD FLY..”Gibby for Mayor” insinuating that he was a long shot….but anything is possible…
Or just the times together going to church...well... our kind of church.
Then ....another set wave would hit.
where are the words?….what can I say?…what am I going to do??
All of a sudden it hit me…there I was surfing perfect waves all to myself..lost in the moment where usually I was hell bent on just surfing and trying hit the lip and all I could think about was my friend Gibby and who he was,it’s like he sent these little waves to me…as a wonderful gift.
It was the all-time Gibby Super Swell!!
This was the way I would honor him,to have him in my thoughts as I raced across the face of a wave…to have him there with me at that moment …just us.
I surfed for 3 hours by myself that day. with Gibby right there with me sharing wave and stories…I was one of the most humbling experiences in my life….you see Gibby was a surfer at heart…he loved all of us, and understood what surfing means to us….
look…the most we can hope for is that we are not forgotten,that we leave a mark on the people in our lives,…to be remembered… Is the ultimate honor,
it’s all we can really ask for.
I am looking forward to hearing the different stories of our friend Gibby..there will be great ones, and those stories like him will never die.
As I got out of the water and looked back on the gulf,I thanked my old friend Gibby for the waves and love I had experienced…and quickly came to a realization…PIGS CAN FLY
adios me amigo…pura vida.
_freddy esposito
Pat Rovai
June 22, 2007
Barbara,
Gibby was loved by my whole family, especially me. I will never forget how you both were of comfort to me when I lost my Captain. You both will always have a special place in my heart. I love you.
Brian and Lisa Smith
June 22, 2007
The Gods are rollin' their eyes. Now that Buzz and Gibby are together, the party will be eternal! God Bless.
Danna Walker
June 22, 2007
Barbara, Sorry for your fallen pirate. I didn't really know Gibby, but Buzz thought the world of him and that was good enough for me. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
christy sullivan
June 21, 2007
barbara, i still can't think of words to say. i truly miss gibby, he was a good man, he walked the beach doing good things, he was kind to people, he never judged others, he loved animals, he tried to take care of helpless creatures. he fed hungry people, and he lifted many a low spirit. i am so glad the 2 of you are a part of my beach family. i love you, christy sullivan
Kathy Tanner
June 21, 2007
"A life well lived goes on forever". Gibby lived his life with passion, heart and soul, in other words, "very well" on Santa Rosa Island. My Prayers are with Barbara and the Fail Family. We will miss his wonderful and kind spirit. Kathy Tanner and Family
Cynthia McComas
June 20, 2007
The last time I spoke to my cousin Gibby was several weeks ago. He greeted me on the phone with his usual hello “What’s up Cuz.” We always called each other Cuz (short for cousin). He was his usual fun-loving self and was scolding me for not coming to see him since his 50th in November. Neither one of us thought we would make it to 50, but we did! Go figure…
I am saddened by his passing because the world has lost a true treasure; however I have happiness in my heart because I was privileged to have known and loved him. Plus, he wouldn’t want us to grieve; he would want us to celebrate his life and ours instead.
Gibby never met a stranger, always carried an impish grin, and he left sunshine and happiness wherever he would go. We went to Santa Barbara a couple of years ago and I witnessed his ministry with two homeless individuals who were living in a park. He walked up, shook their hands and began a conversation that lasted for several minutes before he turned and told them he had to continue on his journey. As we left, he shook both of their hands again and wished them well while slipping each a little token so no one else could see. We continued on our journey and nothing else was spoken of the encounter other than he hoped their circumstances would be better in the future. That was the kind of guy Gibby was. He was a friend to all, a minister to the downtrodden and weary, and a lover of life!
I offer my condolences to my family and each and every family whose lives Gibby has touched. Know that he is in a better place now and he will always have an honored place within my heart and the hearts of others. Every time I walk along the sandy shore, he will be there.
Carol Burns
June 20, 2007
Gibby Fail was a gentleman, kind, considerate, a gifted musician, a gentle spirit and a good friend to all who knew him. I will always remember him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Carol Burns
Bob Burns
June 20, 2007
I've been trying to write some things I remember about Gibby. Everything I come up with is not enough. All I can say is I miss him and I'm glad he was my friend.
"Pastor Bob"
"Church of the Good Guys"
Don Lindgren
June 20, 2007
Heaven's Rock n Roll Band just got alot better. Thanks Gibby for the pleasure of knowing you!
Bob Burns
June 20, 2007
I've been trying to write some things I remember about Gibby. Everything I come up with is not enough, so all I can say is I miss him and I'm glad he was my friend.
"Pastor Bob"
Church of the Good Guys
Ted Kennington
June 20, 2007
Barbara, Marsha and I did not know Gibby well, but the few times we met him we knew he was a free soul. Go on with your life as if he were still here, for he will always be with you. Ted & Marsha
Jeremy Clark
June 19, 2007
Wow. I was shocked to read this obituary in the paper last week. Though I didn't get much of a chance to know Gibby, I knew he was special. After meeting for the first time at subway on pensacola beach, he needed a ride home and invited me and 3 friends (complete strangers) into his beautiful home. We only got to see him a couple more times after that, but the memories will never die. He truly was a special man. One rare soul who will be missed by anyone he ever met. I hope to make it to the celebration of life this saturday and remember Gibby the way he would have wanted it!
Beverly Sarasua
June 19, 2007
No more will you walk this sandy beach, you now have wings to fly in the white sands of heaven.
You will be missed, Gibby.
~K.D,Bev,& Ottis~
Russell Fail
June 19, 2007
I've only met my cousin a few times. Everytime I did he was always pleasant and friendly to me an my family. I wish we could have spent more time together. My prayer is that the peace of Christ which surpasses all understanding will be on his family as they endure this parting.
Brad Greek
June 19, 2007
I have only recently met Gibby through Barbella's receptions. One memory I have is of his kindness when he spent time with my kids trying on hats during a show. They were having a great time and my kids still talk about that night. Thanks
My heart goes out to you Barbara, we are all here for you.
Lacey Parkhurst
June 18, 2007
Barbara, my prayers are with you...I think of Gibby's great sense of fun and mischief...it will always bring me happiness to remember the two of you together and know how much he loved you. He was such a free spirit--and that booming laugh! I can hear it now, it was a real pleasure to know him.
jeffery wheelock
June 18, 2007
gibby fail, was my friend! tiki jeff
Lanny Fievet
June 18, 2007
Gibby was just "Jimmy" to me. I grew up next door to Jimmy in Birmingham and we were childhood friends. It makes my heart happy that Jimmy found peace, love and happiness in the arms of so many.
I have many memories of Jimmy, memories that today may be caught on video or digital camera, yet now only remain with me and in heaven. Sorry to hear you're gone Jimmy but glad to see you lived a life worth living.
Charles A. Fail
June 17, 2007
My nephew Gibby achieved what others only dream. He lived life on his own terms and he did so with kindness and gentleness of spirit. "Go Rest High On That Mountain..."
Mr. and Mrs. Dwight D. Howland Jr.
June 17, 2007
Dear Uncle Jim and Barbara,
We are so sorry to here about gibby. We loved him very dearly and will miss him every day. He was a free soul and loved everyone that he called friends and family. I just thank god for knowing him. I just wish we could have spent more time together than we did. We love all of you and may God be with you in you're time of need. We love you and we will see you soon.
Anky Thompson
June 17, 2007
We remember Gibby as a very special, always kind customer. While he shopped around for his beloved wife Barbara ( he knew exactly what she would like !)we had many nice talks and good times! We will miss him.
Anky and Margaret "The International Boutique" Pensacola Beach,
Beverly "Mrs Boudreaux" Summerlin
June 17, 2007
What a sweet and wonderful soul. Life isn't the candle nor the wick. It is the burning, and Gibby you burned so bright! Barb, my heart breaks for your sorrow. Please know I am thinking of you and praying for you all the time.
ashley foreman
June 16, 2007
My dear bro gibby,
I worked today and the pirate song rang in my head all day long. I mentioned this to many of our friends because you were there with me the entire day and will continue to be. I even found my self singing it out loud to myself (never in my life have i sang that song). I made sure you were with us on Daves paddle out just like you wanted to be. You were such a special force when you were here and we all feel a great void now that we can't actually touch you. I feel blessed that the last thing before you left town was call me outside on the deck just to give me a hug. Thank you for being such a special friend to me. You will always be in my heart. Don't worry we'll all take care of your greatest love and our wonderful friend Barb.
john straub
June 16, 2007
Gibby's kindness and generosity won't be forgotten by the many musicians he helped. Play one for Gibby.
Greatly missed by Bobby Purify and Caroline, John Straub and many others
Karina and Jim
June 16, 2007
Gibby will be missed by many! He was such a kind soul. Our prayers are with you Barb at this difficult time. God Bless ya Gibby, and may you rest in peace!
Kim Davenport Paul Senato
June 16, 2007
"Throw your share of pebbles in the pond…you never know when the one time that you do something is going to change the course of everything else."
Gibby threw his share of pebbles and did make a difference. We will miss him and keep his spirit.
Danah Gibson
June 16, 2007
To Mr Fail & family, I am so sorry for your loss,please know how much your son was loved by all his friends. Thank you and the Late Mrs. Fail for having him, as he was truly a joy. To Barb, there are no words I can say to make you feel better, just know that you have many, many friends here to help you make it thru when times are rough, and that Gibby loves you dearly! To Gibby,you unknowingly taught me so much, made me laugh, and you take a piece of my heart with you... We will miss you always- Danah
Will Kellenberger
June 16, 2007
I remember the sunny days sitting on the wall of shame with Gibby and the Beach Gang. Gibby you will be missed.
Barbra, my sympathy goes out to you and family in this time of Celebrating Gibby's Life.
Charlie Rotenberry
June 15, 2007
Gibby is as much a part of Pensacola Beach as anyone that has ever walked these beautiful shores. I was particularly touched by his desire to paddle out at my brother's recent "Surfers Memorial" paddle out. Giving no thought to the danger or the expense of buying a board to be a part of our tradition, Gibby wanted badly to be there. When we did Dave's paddle out, we also let him paddle out with us in spirit and expressed that "the world needed more people like our friend Gibby". Rock on brother. I'm sure sure you'll be on the front row in Heaven listening to the music that never ends. Bless that giant heart of yours.
David and Shelly Pittman
June 15, 2007
With heavy hearts we say goodbye to a true free spirit and friend Warmest Regards......
Lindsay Woods
June 15, 2007
there was no one else like gibby..he had a kind heart and lived his life the way he wanted..that is such a gift! last thanksgiving he gave my son a special gift(they were born on the same day) a necklace he had worn for years..he cut it off his neck and said it would protect him and ward off evil spirits! it hangs in Stone's room..I will never for get that! Barbara your in my thoughts..i know what your going through..XOXO
Lindsay Woods
(Gibby's niece)
tamara cozzolino
June 15, 2007
Barb, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Gibby was such a dear free soul and so kind to everyone. He will surely be missed by everyone who knew him. Joseph & Tammy
mark simmons
June 15, 2007
you will be missed gibby.so very sorry the great times ended to early.much love to you barbara.
G.W. FULLER
June 15, 2007
BARBARA
SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS..GIBBY HAD A GREAT RIDE... I'M PROUD TO HAVE KNOWN HIM.....
C.C. Miranda
June 15, 2007
There are many thoughts and memories that I have of Gibby, far to many to list here. I will always carry with me the knowledge that he imparted on my soul. Live life with the joy of a child and dance to the rythm of your own drum.
Kathryn Luttrull
June 15, 2007
I'll always remember my brother Jimmy with a smile and not with tears, for that's what he would have wanted.
Hayley Smith
June 15, 2007
My uncle Jimmy was truly one in a million. He was the epitome of a free spirit. He will be missed. My heart goes out to Barbara. I know what you're going through right now, and you are in my prayers.
Jim Dixon
June 15, 2007
Barb, may you find peace and love from all who know you, and cared for Gibby. He was remarkable, a free spirit who really meant a lot to me. I miss him and will never forget his smile.
Carla Tanner
June 15, 2007
Gibby I will miss you.
You were the kindest person on the Beach.
DA & Matt Estrup
June 15, 2007
We love you and we love Gibby!
Lisa & Buzz Busby
June 15, 2007
We have many wonderful memories of our friend Gibby Fail that we will cherish forever. He was such a loving and unique person and he will definitely be missed in our beach community. Barbara and family, our prayers are with you all. Gibby will always be with you, watching over you...Peace.
Jesse & Justin
June 15, 2007
Barbara, our thoughts are with you in this difficult time. We love you!
darla permenter
June 15, 2007
Barbara,
We are thinking of you and hope you will find comfort by knowing how many people loved Gibby.
Our Sympathy and Prayers,
Doug and Darla Permenter
ANA ANDRADE
June 15, 2007
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
cheryl wiggins
June 15, 2007
Gibby was my friend and we spent many Sunday afternoons at Bobby D's watching the Saints play football. He was Mr. Pensacola Beach. He will be missed
Scott Jenkins
June 15, 2007
Barbra Fail and Family,
You have my deepest sympathy. Gibby will be in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you.
Tarsha Bechtol
June 15, 2007
We are going to miss you Giblet!! My thoughts and prayers are with you Barb. Our little Beach Community has lost a true and loving character~Tarsha
John & Diane Quadrozzi
June 14, 2007
Gibby was great!
Gibby was good!
He gave from the heart,
As much as he could!
We'll miss you, dearly!
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