Mervin Gibbs, Sr.

Mervin Lee Gibbs, Sr.
1926 - 2017

Mervin Lee Gibbs, Sr. passed away from this life on March 7, 2017 at his home in Odessa. Mervin was born in Lawton, Oklahoma on December 25, 1926 to Bill and Gertrude (Creel) Gibbs and was raised in Iraan, Texas where he graduated High School. He entered the Navy in December 1944 at the age of 17 where he served in the South Pacific front and is a decorated World War II veteran. He was honorably discharged in July 1946. After discharge from the Navy, he attended Texas Tech in Lubbock. He married the love of his life, Ida Pearl Henington on Oct. 3, 1952 in Tatum, New Mexico. They lived in Odessa where they raised their children - Diane, Cathy, Mervin Jr., Doris and Tim.

Mervin lived life on his terms and was an early pioneer in the Oil Industry. He owned Gibbs Drilling Company along with his brothers and father. Gibbs Drilling Company, utilizing early Cable Tool Rig technology to drill wells in the Iraan area. He also owned/operated his own trucking company until retirement at the age of 80. He enjoyed growing specialty pecan trees and the outdoors. Mervin loved spending time with his grandchildren and especially enjoyed trips to Laughlin with Ida. He was deeply loved by his children and family.

Mervin is survived by his children, Diane Newport and husband Ricky of Abilene, Texas, Cathy Vetterman and husband Larry of Hot Springs, South Dakota, Mervin Lee Gibbs Jr of Odessa, Tim Gibbs and wife Celia of Midland, Texas. 12 Grandchildren 25 Great Grandchildren and 3 Great, Great Grandchildren.

Mervin will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. A celebration of Mervin's life will be held at 1:00 pm, Saturday, March 11, 2017, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home. To send family condolences please sign the guest registry at www.sunsetodessa.com.

Visitation

Family and Friends Gathering

Sunset Memorial Funeral Home
6801 E. Business 20
Odessa, TX  79762
Friday, March 10, 2017
6:00-8:00 pm

Service

Funeral Service/Celebration of his Life

Sunset Funeral Home Chapel
6801 East Business 20
Odessa, TX  79762
Saturday, March 11, 2017
1:00 pm

Cemetery

Sunset Memorial Gardens
6801 E. Business 20
Odessa, TX  79762