Jeffrey Gibbons

Jeffrey J. Gibbons, 67, of North Providence, RI, lost his courageous battle with pancreatic cancer and passed away on January 19, 2020.  He was the devoted husband of Michele Cerreta Gibbons.

Born in Providence, Rhode Island, he was the son of Carmel Sgambato Gibbons and the late Raymond Gibbons.  He graduated from Roger Williams University in 1975, earning a degree in Political Science.  Jeff was a 4-year member of the varsity hockey program, serving as captain his junior year.

Jeff started his work career at the family owned Yacht Club Bottling Company where he developed the strong work ethic he exhibited his entire life.  Following in the footsteps of his beloved maternal grandfather, the late State Senator Frank Sgambato, Jeff worked at the Rhode Island General Assembly for 23 years, starting as a page and proof reader.  Jeff’s knowledge of Rhode Island politics combined with his hardworking, honest and straightforward communication skills earned him multiple promotions culminating with his becoming House Legislative Director for the Rhode Island House of Representatives, a post he held until 1994.  Deciding to pursue other career options, Jeff had a long interest in construction and worked as a land surveyor and home builder for a number of years and studied nights, earning a Rhode Island Journeyman’s plumbing license.  He worked for Gem Plumbing and Heating for 10 years before retiring to care for his late wife, Paula Branca Gibbons.

An accomplished athlete Jeff’s life revolved around his love of sports.  Whether it was following the New England Patriots or his beloved Boston Bruins, Jeff was always involved in athletics.  Sports helped define Jeff’s life and he was a member of numerous local baseball teams, recreational hockey teams and served as a longtime member of the RI Fantasy baseball league.  He gave back to others as well, serving as a coach in the Scituate/Foster Little League.  An accomplished golfer, Jeff was a member of the CRCC golf league at the North Kingstown Golf Course for many years.

Jeff’s hobbies included a passion for building decorative, functional bird houses, exhibiting his work at art festivals and flower shows.  He was an avid home gardener and loved to share plants with his friends and family.  He enjoyed the summer vacations he spent at this family’s lakefront cottage in Bridgton, Maine.

In addition to his wife Michele, Jeff is survived by many nieces and nephews.

His funeral will be held on Friday, January 24, 2020 on 9 am from the Robbins Funeral Home, 2251 Mineral Spring Ave., North Providence with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am in Blessed Sacrament Church, Academy Ave, Providence.  Burial will follow in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston.  Calling hours Thursday 5-8 pm.