Edward Windsor Gibbs

Edward Windsor Gibbs, born January 13, 1945, in East St. Louis, Illinois, to James Kenyon Gibbs and Gladys Irene Gibbs (née Windsor), passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, surrounded by family.

At the age of 12, Ed moved to Waterloo, Illinois, where he graduated from Waterloo High School in 1963. In 1965, he was drafted into the United States Army and served a full tour of duty in Vietnam. Reflecting on his service, he would say, “I came back with no spare holes, and the flashbacks were few and far between.”

Ed began his career with Trans World Airlines in September 1967, dedicating more than three decades of service before retiring in March 1999. After retirement, he worked at Annbriar Golf Course in the pro shop for another 17 years, where he combined his love for golf with well-timed commentary for any patron who would listen.

On September 27, 1969, Ed married the love of his life, Susan Volkert of “Monnie’s” fame. Together, they built a life centered on family and raised three fine sons: Steven, Tyler, and Griffin. Ed’s greatest joys were basketball, antique Buicks, and golf. He was a proud 4-time president of the St. Louis Gateway Chapter of the Buick Club of America. Some of his favorite accomplishments were several hole-in-ones, including his final hole-in-one on the 17 th hole at Annbriar Golf Course.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Kenyon Gibbs and Gladys Irene Gibbs-Akers (née Windsor); his stepfather, Marvin C. Akers; and his in-laws, August “Monnie” Volkert and Esther Volkert (née Daab). Brother Raymond & sister Virginia, son Steven, and sister-in-law Mary Ann Gibbs, nee Schmidt.

Ed is survived by his wife, Susan, of Columbia, and sons, Tyler (Ashley) Gibbs of St. Louis, MO, and Griffin (Ashley) Gibbs of Mt. Zion, IL. Grandchildren Emery and Cohen Gibbs. Brother Ken Gibbs of Waterloo, two step-brothers John and Mark Akers, and three stepsisters Elaine Pape, Janet Asselmeier, & Diane Lavender. Brother-in-law Steven (Bonnie) Volkert. Nephew Jake Gibbs. Nieces Tara (Tony) Busch, Michelle (Shawn) Behrmann, and Nicole (Michael) Hartwick. Beloved “granddogs” Willow, Dolly, and Louie.

Though known for his sharp wit and often risqué humor, Ed also had a tender side, especially when it came to his grandchildren and animals. His biting one-liners were often softened by a mischievous grin and a chuckle, and those who knew him best understood that, behind the sarcasm, was a man of great loyalty and immense love for his friends and family. Ed will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his steadfast work ethic, his service to his country, his storytelling, razor-sharp humor, and perfectly timed one-liners, all of which he maintained until the very end.

As per Ed’s wishes, a celebration of a ‘Life Well Lived’ will be held at Annbriar Golf Course on March 7 at 1 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Helping Strays of Monroe County or Columbia Eagles Athletic Booster Club.