Richard James Gibbs, Sr., known by many as “RJ” or “Gramps,” went to his heavenly home on June 9th, 2021 at the age of 95, joining his beloved bride Ann Marie Gibbs (m. 1954 – 2003) and beloved second wife Patricia Barnes (m. 2005 – 2011).

He will be lovingly remembered by his six children; Jamie (Debbie), Honey (Ross), Joe (Sue), Mimi (Randy), Katie (Bob), and Larry; 11 grandchildren; Joey, Maddie, Nick (Courtney), Lia, Samantha (Matt), Ricky, Hugh, Elise, Cole, Robert, and Olivia; nieces and nephews; members of the Barnes family; and countless friends here in the US and in Canada that were like family to him.

Born in Detroit, MI to William Henry and Grace Cronin, Richard lived a life devoted to his faith and family. He graduated from the University of Detroit Jesuit High School and University of Detroit College, before founding Gibbs Machinery in 1946 and marrying his treasured Ann Marie in 1950.

Some might say he was also a founding member of the “Cheerful Charlie” club. Richard had a positivity about him that was magnetic – to know him was to know sincere joy. He had enough “dad/Gramps” jokes for a lifetime, and even later in life when his speech faded, he found a way to light up the room. He shared his jokes, his heart, and all his passions with those he loved. RJ spent summers on the shores of Lake Erie with his beloved Ann Marie at their cottage teaching his children, grandchildren and all of their friends to swim, sail, fish, boat, and waterski; all of which he later shared with his second love, Pat Barnes. In the winters, he shared his love of snow-skiing. Of the many respected titles RJ had in his life, his favorites were “husband,” “dad,” and “Gramps” –he wore them all well with great pride.

Richard had a true servant-heart. A veteran of World War II and the Korean War, he was proud to have served his country. For many years, RJ was an active member of the Machinery Dealers National Association and he served as president for several terms.

Richard is remembered for his humble, kind, generous and fun spirit. He was devoted to his Jesuit faith. The fruits of the Holy Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control) were evident in the ways he led his life, both big and small; a great example to us all. He was deeply loved and will be deeply missed.

Friends may greet the family at a visitation on Sunday, June 13th, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. with 7 p.m. Rosary Service at McCabe Funeral Home, 31950 West Twelve Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48334.

A funeral mass will be held on Monday, June 14th, at 10:30 a.m. with his in state beginning at 10 a.m. at St. Regis Catholic Church, 3695 Lincoln Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Richard’s memory may be made to:

IHM Sisters, 610 W. Elm Avenue, Monroe MI 48162

https://ihmsisters.org/ways-of-supporting/giving-opportunities/donate/

Irish Pallottine Fathers, 424 Orange Street Wyandotte, MI 48192 

https://www.irishpallottines.org/donations/