In Loving Memory of Roland Lowell Gibbons and Ellen Rea White Gibbons

With the deepest sadness, we announce the passing of Roland Gibbons and his beloved wife, Ellen. Roland Lowell Gibbons died unexpectedly on July 20, 2026, at the age of 67, just twelve days after the loss of his wife, Ellen Rea White Gibbons, who was 68. Ellen passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with breast cancer and Parkinson's disease. Together in life and now reunited in eternity, Roland and Ellen shared a remarkable love built on friendship, creativity, curiosity and adventure.

Roland was born on June 26, 1959, to the late Lowell Gibbons and Betty Sue Gibbons. He is survived by his sister, Veronica Willis, and by his sons, Geoffrey Elijah (Eli) Gibbons and his partner, Kimberly Ann Macdonald, and John McKinley (Mac) Gibbons and his wife, Morgan Kate Bonham.

Ellen was born on April 2, 1958, to the late Lloyd Neil White and Wanda Robins White. She was preceded in death by her brother, Stephen Neal White, and her sister, Linda Christina White.

Roland possessed a true artist's soul. He was a gifted illustrator and art director. He spent the majority of his career at GS&F, where the people, the work and the creative spirit became one of the most fulfilling joys of his professional life. Roland had recently begun rediscovering his passion for drawing and creating. Additionally, he was endlessly fascinated by weather, always watching the skies, tracking storms and sharing his passion with those around him.

Ellen was an accomplished journalist and talented writer whose words reflected both intelligence and compassion. She found joy in the quiet beauty of birdwatching and cherished her three miniature schnauzers, who brought her endless comfort and companionship. Throughout her long battle with breast cancer and Parkinson's disease, Ellen demonstrated extraordinary courage, grace and resilience. Even as her health declined, she continued to inspire those around her with her determination and strength.

Roland and Ellen met while working at the College Heights Herald, where he was a cartoonist and she was a journalist/editor. Throughout their marriage, they shared a love of travel and discovery. As Roland approached retirement, they eagerly looked forward to exploring the world together, creating new memories in the years they believed still lay ahead. Their shared adventures, laughter and unwavering devotion to one another remain a lasting testament to the life they built together.

Their family finds comfort in knowing they are reunited after a lifetime of love. They leave behind countless friends, family members, colleagues and neighbors whose lives were enriched by their kindness, creativity, humor and generous spirits.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has offered love, prayers and support throughout Ellen's illness and in the days following the loss of both Ellen and Roland. Their compassion has been an immeasurable source of strength.

A celebration of Roland and Ellen's lives will happen this Fall and will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial gifts to organizations supporting breast cancer research, Parkinson's disease research, or a charity of the donor's choosing in their memory.