John J. Gibson

John J. Gibson, of Manlius, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2018 from the result of an automobile accident in Florida. A humble, kind, and loyal man who dedicated his life in service of others. Small in stature, he opened his heart to everyone he met, and believed there was unique goodness in everyone. Born April 23, 1937, Johnny was raised in the House of Providence, in Syracuse, where he felt forever indebted to the nuns who raised him. As a form of repayment, every Monday night for over 40 years, John prepared meals and served the same order of nuns who raised him. Upon graduation of his parochial schooling, John joined the Armed Forces, serving his country in the United States Army. Throughout his life he would build bonds that made him a part of hundreds of families in and around Central New York. A devout Catholic, he was member of St. Ann's Parish in Manlius.

Johnny would easily capture the attention of others with his charm and beautiful, warm, inviting smile,
as he would always respond in kind, in his soft tone and a simple nod "THANK YOU SIR." He had his own special way of communicating and would refer to everyone as "BOSS". Johnny was the heart and soul of the Onondaga Country Golf and Country Club in Fayetteville, NY, where he served loyally for 50 years as the Locker Room Attendant and Club House Staff Member. Johnny passed on the eve of the club's marquee event that he loved and looked forward to working every year, the 3-Day Member Guest.

Johnny's true gift was his sensitivity and service to others. John is survived by many faithful friends, former coworkers, the St. Ann's community, and especially by those families who had his love and affection. His memory will live on in all those who were fortunate to know and love him. He lived an extraordinary life which is proof that if you work hard and have faith, anything is possible.


Calling Hours will be on Thursday July 19th from 4-6 pm at Burns-Garfield Funeral Home, 3175 East Genesee St. Syracuse. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10:30 am on Friday July 20th at St. Ann's Church, Manlius. Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Dewitt. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Sisters of St. Francis, 6900 Buckley Rd. Syracuse NY 13212 or Catholic Charities of Onondaga County or St. Ann's Parish.