John Carl Gibb, 31, of Ocala, Florida, passed away unexpectedly on March 21, 2023.
John was born on March 31, 1991, in Fairlea, West Virginia to Scott D. Gibb and Melissa S. Gibb. He is a 2009 graduate of Pocahontas County High School. After high school, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Print Journalism at Marshall University and then proceeded to earn his Master of Science degree in Mass Communication at the University of Southern Mississippi. Prior to his passing, he was pursuing a Masters in Educational Leadership with the American College of Education.
John was a Journalist for the Charleston Daily Mail in Charleston, West Virginia prior to moving to Florida in 2016. Once in Florida, he began substitute teaching, which ignited his passion for teaching and kickstarted his career as a full-time educator for Marion County Public Schools at Lake Weir High School. During his 7-year tenure at Lake Weir High School, John taught Pre-IB English, Journalism, AICE General Papers, and English. He was recognized as the Rookie Teacher of the Year in 2018. In 2023, he was recognized as a Golden Apple Teacher for Marion County Public Schools, a highly esteemed and prestigious recognition. In addition to serving as an educator, John was a mentor teacher, Yearbook Advisor, Speech & Debate Coach, Student Government Co-Advisor, and Freshman Class Sponsor.
John is survived by his parents, Scott and Melissa Gibb of Marlinton, West Virginia, brothers, Tim Gibb (Katie) and David Gibb of Marlinton, West Virginia, Andrew Gibb (J.T. Robinson) of Orlando, Florida, and a beloved nephew, Christopher Gibb of Marlinton, West Virginia. He is also survived by maternal grandparents, Freddy and Linda Gravely of Marlinton, West Virginia and his paternal grandmother, Linda Gibb of The Villages, Florida. He is preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, James (Jim) Gibb of The Villages, Florida.
John’s passion for education and teaching was immeasurable. John had a unique way of connecting with students that changed perceptions of the traditional teacher. Beyond that of an educator, John was a mentor, friend, and a guiding light for countless students. Through his unwavering dedication, John inspired a love of learning and instilled values that will continue to shape the lives of children for generations to come. While speaking at the 2023 Golden Apple Gala in February, 2023, John shared a quote that he lived by, “Whatever you do in life, make sure it is meaningful and purposeful.” John truly embodied this as he lived each day with intentionality and purpose, always inspiring those around him to do the same. His passion and love for life, his students, and his family was evident as he strived to make a positive impact on the world around him.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 12:00 PM at Roberts of Ocala Downtown Chapel, located at 606 SW Second Ave Ocala, FL 34471. A Memorial Service will be held in Marlinton, West Virginia at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations may be made to the John Gibb Memorial Fund (10351 SE Maricamp Rd. Ocala, FL 34472-2517). This memorial fund, founded in John’s name, will help serve as a lasting tribute to John at Lake Weir High School and will ensure that his legacy lives on. Friends and family wish to extend their gratitude to Marion County Public Schools, the Public Education Foundation of Marion County, colleagues, and students for the joy, love, and kindness you brought to John’s life.