Clifford Mitchell "Cliff" Gibbs

Clifford Mitchell Gibbs of Tifton, Georgia passed away October 5, 2025 on his 73rd birthday at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida with his wife by his side.

“Cliff” was born on October 5,1952 in Tifton, Georgia, the 6th child and the 3rd son of James and Mary Clifford Reed Gibbs of Ashburn, Georgia. Cliff graduated from Turner County High School in 1970, then went on to Middle Georgia College in Cochran for one year before transferring to the University of Georgia, earning his Pharmacy degree in 1976. Cliff married Sheila Raines on February 7, 1981 in Ashburn, Georgia. Cliff was very proud that he had a 49 year career as a pharmacist, having worked at Eckerd Drugs, WalMart, Fred’s, R&M Drugs, and Tifton Drug Company.

Cliff grew up attending Westside Baptist Church of Ashburn and was baptized in his youth. He later became a member of the First United Methodist Church of Ashburn after marrying his wife Sheila. Before his health began to decline, Cliff enjoyed vacations at the beach, attending UGA football games, golfing, and fixing things around the house (he liked to “piddle.”) In his later years, he loved keeping up with the Atlanta Braves, watching UGA football, and going to as many sporting events to watch his grandchildren as he could.

He was a man with a big heart for the underdog — always helping those that needed a hand and always finding the good in everyone. His passion for life showed in his love of football, baseball, sporty cars and his deep affection for animals, especially dogs who seemed to sense his kind spirit. His beloved miniature schnauzers, Beau Butler and Bonnie Blue had a very special place within his heart. He loved them as though they were extra members of the family.

He loved fast cars, the Georgia Bulldogs, good laughs, and every dog that crossed his path. With a quick wit and a sharp sense of humor, he could make anyone laugh, often daily turning ordinary moments into unforgettable memories. In his younger days, he was known for throwing curve balls that left batters guessing — a skill that mirrored the clever, unpredictable joy he brought to life itself.

He took immense pride in being a girl dad, cherishing every laugh, milestone, and adventure. As the youngest of six children, he proudly held the title of the “spoiled baby brother.” With three big sisters and two older brothers looking out for him, he never had to lift a finger if they could help it. He was doted on, teased, and loved in equal measure, and he carried that playful spirit with him all his life. Growing up surrounded by so much love shaped the kind and caring man he became — one who always made sure others felt just as cared for as he did. He loved to spoil his daughters and wife and always made sure they never wanted for anything if it was within his power.

Cliff was a fighter. No matter how many times his health tried to knock him down, he always found a way to get back up. He had an incredible strength about him — the kind that came from deep inside — and he never lost his sense of humor or his fight. His ability to rebound after every setback inspired everyone who knew him. In November 2017, Cliff, known affectionately as “PaPah” by his granddaughter Sadie, received both a heart and kidney transplant—a true miracle that gave our family what we lovingly call his “bonus years.” Through God’s grace and goodness, we were blessed with eight more precious years filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable memories. During that time, he experienced some of life’s greatest joys: witnessing the birth of his first grandson, celebrating his younger daughter’s marriage, and welcoming his two beautiful twin granddaughters. Our family will forever be grateful for the selfless gift of organ donation and for the extra time it allowed us to share with him.

Remaining to cherish Cliff’s memory are Sheila, his loving wife of 44 years; children, Mallory Garvey (Jonathan), Lindsey Lehman (Blake); Grandchildren, Sadie Garvey, Reed Garvey, Ada James Lehman, Annders Lehman; Bonus Grandchildren, Kelsey, Blakelee, Sawyer, Kolton, and Birdie Lehman. Other special family members include Judy Gibbs, Jimmy Wilson, Dennis & Sherry Summers, Gary & Sandra Guess, Benjy & Susan Gandy, Scotty & Melanie Raines and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding Cliff in death are his sisters Betty Matsche, Patsy Wilson, and Penny Gibbs; sister in law “Teny” Gibbs; and brothers Charles “Buddy” Gibbs, and Phil Gibbs; and brother in law Jack Matsche.

Visitation will be held Tuesday October 7th from 5-7pm at Perry Funeral Chapel in Ashburn, Georgia. Funeral/Memorial services will be held Wednesday at 11am at the First Methodist Church of Ashburn with Reverend Carrie Myers and Reverend Kathy Israel-McLeod officiating, with a graveside service to follow, with Reverend Jay Shingler officiating.