08/20/2026
Martin Gibbs
Jul 8, 1925 — Aug 16, 2026
Pittsboro, Indiana
Mr. Martin Gibbs, age 101, of Pittsboro, Indiana, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Martin was born on July 8, 1925, in his family’s Brownsburg home, the son of the late Clarence John and Mary Catherine (Roach) Gibbs. He was the sixth of twelve children, growing up alongside four brothers and seven sisters. While raised during the Great Depression, his family’s strength and resilience allowed them to thrive through challenging times.
At age 17, Martin enlisted in the United States Marine Corps alongside several of his basketball teammates. He served valiantly in the South Pacific during World War II, where he was wounded in the line of duty. A proud member of the Greatest Generation, Martin quietly carried his sacrifice with modesty and rarely discussed his wartime service. Upon returning home, he earned his high school diploma from Brownsburg High School.
On February 6, 1948, Martin married the love of his life, Marjorie Jean (Dillon) Gibbs. Their devoted union spanned 58 wonderful years until Marjorie’s passing in 2006. A well-known and respected figure throughout the community, Martin delivered fuel to local farms and homes for over 40 years.
Martin was a devoted brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to many. Endearingly known as "Papaw" to his grandchildren, he enjoyed gardening, cooking, vacationing in Michigan, and water skiing. He spent many years coaching Little League, attending his grandchildren’s events, and hosting large family gatherings. Martin loved living in Pittsboro and remained deeply connected to his neighbors and hometown. In his later years, he stayed cheerful and active, often seen out enjoying the fresh air in his power wheelchair.
The Gibbs family expresses their deepest gratitude to the dedicated staff at Sunrise Senior Living in Carmel for their extraordinary care, kindness, and support.
In addition to his parents and his beloved wife, Marjorie, Martin was preceded in death by three brothers, seven sisters, and several nieces and nephews.
He is survived by his loving children, Jane (Steve) Pratt and Jim (Barbara) Gibbs; his cherished grandchildren, Elizabeth Gibbs (Jeremy Simpson), Rebecca Gibbs, Chris (Andrea) Pratt, and Sara Pratt (Mark) Barton; his beloved great-grandchildren, Riley Gibbs (Noah) Reilford, Mollie Jane Simpson, Cosley Pratt, Anna Barton, Mia Barton, and Elsie Barton; as well as one brother, and many extended family members.
Visitation will be held at Eric M.D. Bell Funeral Home in Pittsboro, Indiana, on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 10:00 AM until the time of the funeral service at 12:00 PM. Following the service, Martin will be laid to rest in K of P Cemetery in Lizton, Indiana.
Friends and family are invited to gather for a Celebration of Life reception from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Pittsboro Christian Church following the committal service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Semper Fi & America’s Fund or to the local Pittsboro Phi Beta Psi Sorority.