Seaman Brian R. Gibbons Jr.

Seaman Brian Russell Gibbons, Jr. died in a car accident on August 30, 2020 at the age of 21. “Gibbs,” as he was known in the military, served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, homeport Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego, California.

Brian was born to Susan Hanke and Brian Gibbons Sr. in Middletown, Connecticut on November 3, 1998 and lived in a few towns before graduating from Plainfield High School in 2016 where he was known as Aubrey. He previously attended Quinebaug Middle College (QMC), a regional magnet high school, where he was involved in LGBTQ initiatives. He was also a member of True Colors in Hartford. Prior to joining the military, Brian attended Three Rivers Community College and Bravado Barber and Cosmetology School. He also worked at BJ’s in Waterford and The Social in New London. Brian was a charming, personable individual who made friends easily. He would make people laugh and feel good about life. He overcame challenges with a smile despite having many obstacles in his short life. Brian stayed true to his authentic self and displayed confidence in his diversity. He was a kind and generous soul. Seaman Gibbons was very proud of serving in the United States Navy and will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

Brian is survived by his parents, siblings Eric, Nicole, Shantel, and Justina Davis. He also leaves his devoted foster parents April Desjardins and Claude Goncalves of Moosup and foster siblings Olivia, Summer, Amaya, Kadyn and Aiden. Brian will be missed by other caregivers in his life including Jamie Palko, Jennifer Murphy and his mentor Constance Kristofik. He had countless friends and family including his best friend Leighanne Okpych. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, October 4, 2020 at 2:00 pm at the Ocean Beach Park, 98 Neptune Avenue, New London, Connecticut. It is an outdoor event (by pavilion) but masks must be worn due to COVID. Brian’s cemetery burial with military honors will be held at Arlington at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: True Colors, 30 Arbor Street, Hartford, CT 06106 www.ourtruecolors.org or Noank Community Support Services, 306 Thames Street, Groton, CT 06340 www.noankcss.org