William L. Gibbs, Jr., known affectionately as Bill, passed away on August 29, 2025, at the VA Medical Center in San Diego at 67. He showed remarkable courage in his battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, a testament to his strength and resilience.
Born on October 12, 1957, in San Francisco, California, Bill was the beloved son of William L. Gibbs, Sr. (1922 – 1991) and Betty (Glover) Gibbs.
A 1975 Escondido High School graduate, Bill served his country as a Navy aircraft mechanic from 1975 to 1981. Stationed at the Naval Reserve Personnel Center in New Orleans, he earned Sailor of the Month honors in 1977 with CARAEWRON 113.
Bill married his partner and best friend, Venus (Braxton) Gibbs, and together they welcomed a son, William N. Gibbs, whose passing in 2005 left an indelible mark on his father’s heart.
Renowned for his rare gift of forging and keeping lifelong friendships, Bill embodied the Maya Angelou sentiment: “A great soul [like Bill’s] never dies. It brings us together again and again.”
Bill is survived by his wife Venus Gibbs, mother Betty Gibbs, brother Dr. John Gibbs, and sisters; Juanita Gibbs and Tina Gibbs.
Bill’s wide circle of lifelong friends will carry forward his legacy of warmth, loyalty, and camaraderie. Their enduring friendships are a testament to the depth of Bill’s relationships.
Memorial Suggestions – The family suggests planting a tree in memory of William L. Gibbs, Jr. This act will serve as a living tribute to his enduring spirit and the lifelong connections he nurtured.