Mary Pauline "Polly" Gibbs

Mary Pauline “Polly” Gibbs, 84, passed peacefully with family members by her side at Park Place Health Care Center in Georgetown, Texas on August 4, 2023. She was a resident of Jarrell, Texas for 44 years.

Polly was born in Houston, Texas on December 2, 1938 to Ernest and Esther Palm. She was the second of two children and dearly admired her brother Raymond, who was 15 years older than her. She graduated from Lutheran High School and married Edward Lewis five days later. Throughout their 14 years together, Polly was a homemaker and caregiver to their four daughters.

After earning an associate degree in business, Polly began her career at Varo Semiconductor, Inc. in Garland, Texas. Ultimately, however, Polly worked at Western Auto Distribution Center in Temple, Texas where she was employed for 29 years.

While living in Temple, Polly met Wayne Gibbs at a “honky tonk” bar (as she liked to call it) where she worked her second job. Polly and Wayne moved to Jarrell and married on December 23, 1982. Being married to Wayne was an adventure. They established their bull riding arena, Triangle G Rodeo Company, where they welcomed many bull riders from all around, even some traveling as far as Japan. Their home was always open to any cowboy that needed food or shelter, and Polly’s giving heart was truly what made her become a grandma to all. Her Southern hospitality led her to be known for the best deer steak, mashed potatoes, gravy, and sweet tea.

Polly made such a difference in the lives of many throughout her time in the rodeo scene, but after finding her way into Jarrell ISD as a substitute teacher, this became her most beloved pastime. She stole the hearts of many students and was treasured within the school as everyone called her “grandma”. Her grandchildren were especially proud to tell their friends that she was actually their grandma in real life. Polly cherished her time with her family and made each one of them feel like they were her favorite. She was the true definition of endless love.

Polly is preceded in death by her parents Ernest and Esther Palm, her brother Raymond Palm, and her sister-in-law Dorothy Palm.

Polly is survived by her loving husband, Wayne Gibbs, of 40 years, her four daughters Colette Lewis, Pam Lewis, Sheri Strotheide (husband Bill), and Celeste Schwertner (husband John), her step-daughters Theresa Gilley, Tonna Gibbs, and step-son Carlton Gibbs (wife Vanessa).

Her grandchildren: Michael Simpson (fiance Viki), Craig Simpson (girlfriend Ca’rin), Brandon Schwertner (wife Skylar), Brittny Frusha (husband Ryan), Juquitta Drieth (husband Brad), Lechael Blaylock (husband Mark), Charles Register (wife Crystal), and Colin Gibbs.

Her great-grandchildren: Emmaly Simpson, Hannah Simpson, Hunter Simpson, Caden Simpson, Jacy Enos, Noah Enos, Megan Blaylock, Lindsey Blaylock, Jayden Drieth, Joseph Register, and many nieces and nephews who she loved very much.

A visitation for Polly will be held Friday, August 11, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Cook-Walden Davis Funeral Home, 2900 Williams Drive, Georgetown, TX 78628. Polly’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Cook-Walden Davis Funeral Home during her Celebration of Life Service. Polly will be laid to rest surrounded by family during a private graveside service.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cookwaldendavisfuneralhome.com for the Gibbs family.