York College Remembers Cynthia Gibbs

Cynthia Gibbs, wife of York College's longtime chairman of the board Jarrell Gibbs, passed away October 3 in Collierville, Tenn.

The Gibbs shared a strong interest in YC and made numerous generous contributions to the college over the years.  The couple, who previously lived in the Dallas, Texas area before retiring to Hot Springs Village, Ark. and then more recently to the Memphis, Tenn. area, visited campus several times each year for board meetings and other special events.

Cynthia, a native of St. Louis, Mo., spent her life as a full-time homemaker, raising son Tim and daughter Karen, while Jarrell pursued his two careers in the military and in the energy industry.  The Gibbs were married for 61 years, and they have four granddaughters and six great grandchildren.

When the Gibbs lived in Dallas and attended the Webb Chapel Church of Christ, some York College alumni encouraged the couple to learn more about YC and to possibly visit the campus in Nebraska.  Eventually their curiosity got the best of them, and Jarrell and Cynthia scheduled the trip and the visit.  

Their research resulted in a remainder-of-life commitment to support York College and to encourage others to do the same.  Jarrell has noted several times since then that the two of them were in total agreement to help the college in whatever ways they were able.

Wayne White, a YC alumnus who served as the Webb Chapel minister at that time, remembered the noticeable difference in Cynthia and Jarrell when they returned from campus: "They just simply fell in love with York College, and it was obvious in their communication, their volunteer time and their generous donations."

The H. Jarrell and Cynthia Gibbs Residence Hall, an apartment building accommodating more than 80 upperclassmen, stands as a visual testimony of their support.    

Cynthia was always active in whatever congregation they attended in their various moves. YC alumnus Steve Belden recalled that she was a standout Sunday school teacher at Webb Chapel:  "Cynthia served with me on the education committee back then. She absolutely loved working in the children’s wing, and she sure never needed my help."

The Gibbs have requested that in lieu of flowers, York College friends and loved ones make memorial contributions to York College, 1125 E. 8th St., York, NE 68467.

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