Frank Smith Gibbs

Frank Smith Gibbs, 88, of Strawberry Point, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Harmony Nursing Home in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He was born on April 4, 1937, in Earlville, the son of James and Susan (Longshore) Gibbs. Frank was raised in the Strawberry Point area and was a 1955 graduate of Strawberry Point High School. He then attended Iowa State University and was a graduate of the Iowa State Dairy and Agricultural Program. Frank returned to Strawberry Point and joined his dad and uncles farming the family farm, which he later took over. During this time, Frank enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in El Paso, Texas. He was then deployed to Korea, attaining the rank of corporal, and served as a driver for officers including a general. Frank was honorably discharged after serving his country for two years. He then returned home to Strawberry Point to continue farming with his family.

On April 8, 1962, Frank was united in marriage to Judith Ann Baker in Markleville, Indiana. Five children were born to this union. Together the couple farmed on the family farm near Strawberry Point. In 1969 they moved to New Albin. Then in 1975, they moved back to Strawberry Point and Frank took over the farm, running the dairy operation.

Frank was a longtime member of the Strawberry Point United Methodist Church. He served as a Boy Scout Leader for many years. Frank was a Mason and a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. Every year Frank looked forward to going on vacation to visit relatives and friends. He cherished his family and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include his three children, Mike Gibbs of Strawberry Point, Charlie Gibbs of Strawberry Point, and Beth (Tuan) Gibbs-Ha of Whitebear Lake, Minnesota; 14 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; three brothers, Edward Gibbs of Strawberry Point, Joseph Gibbs of Waterloo, and John (Janet) Gibbs of New Albin; one sister, E. Jane (Rick) Hazen of Salem, South Dakota; brother-in-law, Charles “Butch” Baker of Pendleton, Indiana; and many nieces and nephews.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Judith in 2007; two daughters in infancy; a sister, Ruth (Paul) Haan; foster son, Lee Rubendall; and grandson, Travis Rubendall.

Frank’s final wishes were that his body be donated to the University of Iowa Deeded Body Program. Because of his wishes, his services will be held at a later date.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frank Smith Gibbs, please visit our floral store.