We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Charles H. Gibbs, 75, of Spotsylvania, Va., who entered eternal rest on Monday, June 9, 2025.

Born December 17, 1949, Charles—affectionately known as Charlie to those closest to him—was a man whose warmth, kindness, and generosity touched everyone he met. He grew up in the segregated South, a formative experience that shaped his enduring empathy and strength. He graduated from Carver High School in Culpeper, Virginia, in 1968 and went on to attend Virginia State University, the first of his family to go to college.

Known for his big heart and easy manner, Charlie had a rare gift: he could connect with anyone. Whether offering a helping hand or sharing a thoughtful word, he consistently gave of himself with grace and sincerity.

Charlie retired in 2015 after more than 40 years as a dedicated truck driver at McLane Mid-Atlantic, where he was not only respected for his work ethic but cherished by friends and co-workers who knew him as "the nicest guy", steadfast, reliable, and always willing to lend a helping hand.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ann Chapman Gibbs, and his three loving daughters: Melissa Gibbs, Angela Gibbs Mitchell, and Kimberly Gibbs. He also leaves behind his devoted stepson, Keith Chapman, and cherished grandson, Christian; and step grandsons Devontae and Jermell.

Charles is also remembered with love by his siblings: Janice Turner, Deloris Lee, Henry "Junior" Johnson, Donald "Donnie" Johnson, Linda Fisher, Robert Johnson, and Teresa Orange; his sisters-in-law, Pauline Bundy, Colleen Johnson, Jennifer Johnson and Gloria Samuel; and his brothers-in-law, Wayne Levere and Robert Latney, Sr. He will be fondly remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who adored him.

He is preceded in death by his first wife, Virginia Gibbs with whom he shared three daughters; his sister, Bernice Wood; his mother, Mamie Gibbs Johnson; his father, Melvin Ruffner; and his aunt and uncle, Dorothy and Daniel Ruffner.

To know Charles was to know humility, laughter, and loyalty. His presence was a comfort and a light to many. While the depth of this loss is almost unbearable, his legacy of compassion and strength lives on in the hearts of all who loved him.

A viewing will be held Saturday, June 21 at 10:00 a.m. at Mount Zion Baptist Church (6030 Harrison Rd. Fredericksburg, Va.), followed by an 11:00 a.m. funeral service. Interment will follow at Locust Grove Baptist Church Cemetery (1957 Locust Grove Church Rd. Orange, Va.)

He will be missed beyond words.