Gibbs, Elizabeth Louise's Obituary
Elizabeth Louise Gibbs passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on April 18th, 2025, with her granddaughter at her bedside in Newark, California. Elizabeth was born on February 3rd, 1932, in Fouke, Arkansas to A.B. and Omelia King. Due to her daddy being a depot agent, she grew up in many cities in the south. She graduated from Hickory High in Hickory, Mississippi in 1949 where she was voted the most beautiful girl in her senior class. She met the love of her life, Emmett Lee Gibbs in Newton, Mississippi. They married three months later, on July 15th, 1951. Due to Emmett’s health issues, they moved to California in 1953, where they built a life rooted in love and family. They had their first daughter Karen Elizabeth in 1955 and their second daughter Lee Jane in 1961. She worked for the Newark Unified School District as a classified aide for over 25 years, retiring in 1991.
Elizabeth had a passion for her family and flowers of all types. She was known for her warm smile, southern charm, her endless patience, and her ability to make everyone feel loved and special. You were always offered coffee, iced tea, and a tuna or egg sandwich when you walked in her home.
Elizabeth was preceded in death by her husband Emmett Lee Gibbs, her parents, her sisters Opal Jones and Maxine VanDenBroek, her brother Richard King Sr., her son-in-law John Wusstig, and many nephews and nieces. She is survived by her daughters Karen Wusstig and Jane Nunes (Larry); her grandchildren Johnny Wusstig (Nikole) and Jennifer Nunes-Horner (James); her great grandchildren Gage Wusstig and Madison Horner; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
The family wishes to acknowledge sincere appreciation to the staff of Heavenly Care Home in Newark, California and Alameda Care Hospice, with special thanks to Donna, Thinn, Sheila, and Justin for all of their exceptionally loving care. They would also like to thank their family and friends for their support through this difficult time.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects and celebrate the life of this remarkable woman. Her legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known her.
What’s your fondest memory of Elizabeth?
What’s a lesson you learned from Elizabeth?
Share a story where Elizabeth's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Elizabeth you’ll never forget.
How did Elizabeth make you smile?

