Grandpa wore glasses. He was sometimes known to wear suspenders and loafers. I almost always saw him with a book in hand.

Grandpa was thoughtful. He did not speak or act without careful consideration. He spoke softly, and was good at listening, even to his grandchildren.

Grandpa was a good sport. Though we always thought he should move a little faster when it was his turn at Phase 10, we always had fun. “Rek!”

Grandpa was the kind of grandpa you are glad to call your own. He’s the only grandpa I’ve ever known. The kind who could have made a living as a department store Santa – all smiles, sparkling eyes, head-thrown-back laugh and a velvet voice that spoke of the knowledge only life can bring. You knew he had lived, and lived well.

Grandpa showed such reverence and respect for grandma. He elevated her.

He called me darling and sweetheart.

Grandpa raised my daddy, and for that he is special.

-Elizabeth Gibbons

some memories from Julie.

Dad and I took walks behind the house in McKinney. One time when we went to take a walk, Dad put on a pair of blue jeans, and he said to me," Look Julie, don't I look cool?" I fixed his jeans and put cuffs in them, and said, now you look cool! Dad told me to clean his office, and he said not to throw anything away. I didn't know exactly what to about his messy desk so I shoved everything in the drawers. And I mean everything off of the desk was in the drawers. Dad looked at it and at first he loved it, because everything was clean and shiney, but then when Dad tried to find anything he was furious. He couldn't find anything because it was all in the drawers, then he just laughed.
When Karen (Gibbons) , Mom and Dad came to visit Paul and I in TN. We went to the TN aquariam, with the Titanic theme. We had a blast everyone loved YOUR (meaning Ralph and Elaine) enthusiam and excitement about the new things and places.
Dad always played games, he always told me to make lists of pro's and con's.. on everything.
Dad always enjoyed watching jeopardy.
Mom and Dad always enjoyed watching McGuyver, super sleuth show.
"He was a good man, he was just cool... silent strength"
It never mattered that no one knew about the good things that he did. He just did them. Like the time He and Robert came to visit for my graduation, they noticed that the kids and I were sleeping on thin sheets, they decided to buy some for us. A small gesture that meant a lot to our little family.
Thanks so much;
Julie

In Memory of Ralph Gibbons

We are saddened by the recent passing of the Gibbons family patriarch, Ralph Gibbons. He was truly a blessing to all he met during his time with us. Ralph was surrounded by family and friends during the last two months and we are all grateful for the outpouring of love and support that has been provided. Your prayers have been a source of comfort during this difficult time.

This site has been setup for those who wish to reflect on memories, stories or thoughts on Ralph. We know he touched many of your lives. Please leave a comment to share or you may also email pictures to gibbonsrobert@msn.com.