James J. Gibbs

Jim was born to James and Alice Gibbs on December 15, 1948 in East Orange. Jim grew up in East Orange and was a resident of Irvington for almost 30 years before moving to Springfield. He was a high school graduate of St. Benedict’s Preparatory School in Newark and graduated with a degree in business from St. Bernard’s College in Alabama.

Jim’s professional experience spanned nearly 50 years working in the field of tax assessment in Irvington and Florham Park. An expert in his field, he also was employed by PSE&G in Newark for almost 30 years. In addition, he was an adjunct professor for Rutgers University.

Jim faithfully served on the Parish Council of Good Shepherd Church in Irvington for 18 years. He was an avid fan of Seton Hall Pirate Basketball and was a proud Seton Hall University parent. Some of his favorite activities included coaching Little League Baseball for more than 15 years with his three sons and grandson. He was a shutterbug and enjoyed family photography and was a pioneer with home movies.

Lover of music, jukeboxes, live concerts, and doo-wop, Jim had an uncanny ability to know the artist, lyrics, year, and label of many songs. He also loved the Jersey Shore. He most enjoyed quality time spent with the love of his life, Loretta, who he was married to for 52 years and was his high school sweetheart. Jim was a devoted husband, an exemplary father, an adored grandfather, and a cherished brother.

Beloved husband of Loretta (nee) Scheick. Devoted father of Jennie and her husband Hansy, James J. Gibbs III, Kate and her husband Steve, Teddy and his wife Stephanie, and Brian and his wife Juliana. Loving grandfather of Damian, Erin, Shane, Matthias, Bridget, Felice, Nate, Zoey, Evelyn, Alice and new grandchild due in October. Dear brother of Jane Byrne and Kevin Gibbs.

Jim loved to help others and had a heart to always look out for the one who may be forgotten. He will be dearly missed by all.

Relatives and friends may visit McCracken Funeral Home, 1500 Morris Ave., Union, NJ on Tuesday, August 1 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Wednesday, August 2, at 11:30 am at Abundant Grace Christian Church, 70 Home Ave. Rutherford.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Abundant Grace Christian Church, 70 Home Ave., Rutherford, NJ, 07070 in memory of Jim Gibbs for Kids Missions or visit https://www.iwantgrace.org/give

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