Rita Faye Gibbs

“

The hands that taught us, the heart that prayed for us, and the faith that guided us will remain with us always.

Rita Gibbs, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 17th at the age of 70.

Rita lived a life rooted in faith, love, and devotion to her family. She spent many years in Port Matilda, Pennsylvania, in the home where she raised her children and later watched her grandchildren grow. That home was more than a house—it was a place filled with warmth, laughter, creativity, and countless cherished memories.

A gifted crafter, Rita loved creating beautiful things with her hands and sharing her talents with others. She generously taught family and friends the techniques and skills she had mastered over the years, always eager to pass along her knowledge and encourage others. Many of the traditions, projects, and memories she shared will continue to live on through those she taught and inspired.

Above all else, Rita treasured her family and friends. She never missed an opportunity to spend time with the people she loved and held them close to her heart. Whether through a visit, a phone call, a thoughtful gesture, or a heartfelt conversation, she made those around her feel seen, valued, and deeply loved.

Known by her family and friends as a true prayer warrior, Rita faithfully prayed for every person in her life. She often prayed Scripture over her loved ones, asking God to guide, protect, and strengthen them. The verses she cherished reflected the way she lived her life: Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God”; Romans 12:10, “Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another”; and Ephesians 4:3, “Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.”

Even through times of physical pain and hardship, Rita’s faith remained steadfast. Psalm 23 was a source of comfort and strength throughout her life. When she felt troubled or faced physical challenges, she would recite the psalm from memory, finding peace and reassurance in God’s promises until His peace filled her heart, soul, and mind.

Rita’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, kindness, generosity, creativity, and love. She leaves behind a family who will forever be grateful for her example, her prayers, and the countless ways she enriched their lives.

Rita is survived by her husband, Terry Gibbs, daughter Bobbi (Tom) Rockey, son Jason Gibbs, daughter Leanne Gibbs; her grandchildren, Morgan Rockey, Hunter (Sydney) Hall, Jackson Gibbs, John Holzerman, Madison Holzerman, Ayden Holzerman, and Carter Holzerman; her great-grandchildren, Talon, Tilden, and Tayson Hall; her siblings, Judy McCorkle, Peggy Crawford, David Crawford, Roy Crawford, Allen Crawford and their children. She was preceded in death by her parents, Virgil and Dora Crawford.

There will be no services per her wishes. Rita expressed her desire for everyone who loved her to only grieve for a moment. Then celebrate her new life, Home in Glory Land. It is, now and forever more, well with her soul. 

Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort in knowing that Rita is at peace in the presence of her Lord and Savior. Her love, wisdom, and faith will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know her.

The hands that taught us, the heart that prayed for us, and the faith that guided us will remain with us always.