Obituary
Harris N. “Sonny” Gibbs was welcomed to his heavenly home on June 6, 2020. Mr. Gibbs passed away at his home in Ponce Inlet, FL while in care of his family and hospice.
Sonny was born in Cordele, GA to Judy and Lloyd Gibbs on August 6, 1942. Both of his parents are deceased. His parents and siblings were members of First Baptist Church in Cordele.
Sonny graduated from Crisp County High School in 1960. He attended and received his AA from Middle GA College. He had an adventurous spirit and hitchhiked all over the US, and made it all the way to Alaska. He enlisted in the Air Force and was stationed at Aviano Air Base in Italy. After serving his country he returned to GA and attended Valdosta State University, where he earned a degree in history and met his future wife. They enjoyed a long and happy marriage of over 52 years.
Sonny was a born leader who led a distinguished career in the Social Security Administration. He inspired his staff to rise above being average in serving the public. He was a honorable and compassionate man that was always happy to help others be their best. He began his career in the Waycross, GA office,he moved to Marietta, GA to become the assistant manager, then he was tapped to be the Assistant Area Director for GA. After that he returned closer to his roots and accepted the job of manger for the Tifton, GA office. Sonny’s next position was in Tampa, FL. The family enjoyed living on the Gulf Coast for several years. His last position was Manager of the Orlando, FL Social Security office. He also gave nationwide leadership training during this time.
In his personal life he was a devoted husband and father. He coached little league when his boy’s were young, he taught Sunday school, he played softball on the church team, he also played in a Sr. League and on the tournament team. He enjoyed water skiing, boating and golfing. He sat with an Alzheimer patient.
Upon retirement he and his wife moved to Ponce Inlet on the Fl East Coast. They enjoyed their time and traveled extensively.The western National Parks were some of their favorite places to explore. They also enjoyed traveling to New England, Canada and Europe. Cruising became a big part of their life.
Sonny will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Shirley and three sons, Mitchell (Shannon), Richmond (Caroline), and Benjamin (Leigh), two grandchildren, Jarred and Savannah, brother, Jeff (Lisa) and by many cousins, nieces and nephews. One brother preceded him in death, Ronnie (Tere).
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