August 28, 1942 – September 2, 2024
Lewis F. Tibbits a faithful servant of God, left his earthly home Monday morning, September 2, 2024.
A singspiration service will be at Mason United Methodist Church on Saturday, September 7, 2024 at 3:00 pm with visitation starting at 1:00. A private graveside service will be held for family; then a Celebration of Life service will be held at Bay Shore Camp on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 1:00 with the family greeting guests starting at 11:00.
Lewis Frederick Tibbits, lovingly known to his family as ‘Junior’, was born at his family home in Pinnebog, MI on August 28, 1942. His father, Lewis William, his mother, Estella Beatrice (Schubach), and sisters Bertie Lew and Beverly were there to greet him. Junior was an avid outdoorsman and that was undoubtedly due to his childhood in Pinnebog. Junior’s parents ensured he was well loved and taught foundational character traits including a strong work ethic. Faithful members of Pinnebog Methodist Church, the Tibbits family always valued church involvement; Junior asked Jesus into his heart as a child in Bible School. Junior was in the last graduating class at Elkton High School in 1960 where he excelled as an athlete as well as in the choir. During high school the bishop appointed Rev. Horace Murry to be the pastor in Pinnebog; his daughter, Geraldine, was then in 10th grade. Ultimately both Junior and Gerry attended Bethel College and they were married in 1962.
While Gerry finished her degree, Lew supported his family by working in the U.S. Rubber Company where he met many life-long friends. In 1964 the family moved to Cass City, MI where Lew was employed by Tuscola County Road Commission; he was simultaneously the youth director at Deford. Being mentored by Rev. Dale Sherry, the trajectory for full-time ministry was set. In 1981 Lew accepted the call to Bay Shore Camp. The foundation of Lew’s 27-years of leadership was set on Biblical principles, empowering people to use their gifts fully, and inspiring others to give and support the ministry. In addition to his leadership at Bay Shore, Lew served as United Methodist District Chair, was a certified Lay Speaker and trainer, was President of the District UM Men, and served the Lord through being a General Conference Delegate for four terms, and Jurisdictional for five terms. He also participated in the conference Camping Program, and the National Statewide Fellowship of Camps called CCCA. Lew was the Visitation Pastor at Pennway Church of God until he became ill in September of 2018: continuing active lay ministry throughout his retirement.
Lew LOVED his family and they knew it. Left on this earth to continue his vision is his devoted wife, Gerry; his daughter who gave loving and steadfast support, Tammy (Mike Shorna; Lindsay, Craig, Stella & James Bowen; Jake, Liz, Eli, Kenny, Kaden, & Erik), his son who continues his legacy, Todd (Denise; Mel, Samra & Leandra Kent; Candice, Ryan, Truett & Cedrick Moline, and Eliana Tibbits whom was a God-given miracle to the family in Lew’s retirement.)
Lewis was predeceased by his parents, Lewis and Estella, in-laws Horace and Lena Murry, sisters Bertie Lew (John Worthington) and Beverly (Dave Allan), great niece Kristen Boyle, great nephew Brian Robinson, and special cousin Margie Champagne. Lew’s remaining family, here to remember and carry on his legacy, include: Bertie’s children (John, Lew & Jennifer, Jeff), Bev’s children (David, Pam, Debbie & Dave); Larry & Rita Tibbits (Jennifer & Tim, Rick & Michelle, Daniel); Cheryl & Charlie Riley, Kent & Beth Tibbits (Lance & Nicki, Logan & Megan), Roy & Betty Murry (Cindy, Cathy & Dennis) and many well-loved cousins, nieces and nephews; special friends Dick Riddle, John & Kelley; special caregiver Nisha Prassad.
Lew will be remembered fondly: perhaps for a special Lew-ism or a ‘funny’ joke. Many will continue to share the stories of how Lew impacted their life as a youth: he was a humble servant that God used for so much good. Most importantly Lew would have us remember his Christian witness as he lived the challenge set forth in Hebrews 12:1-2, “…may all who come behind us find us faithful.” Lew leaves several beloved Bible verses: II Timothy 3:16-17 (his tattoo), Proverbs 29:18, & Proverbs 22:6. When asked about his legacy, Lew replied with heart-felt emotion, “I love everybody, no matter what.”
Last Updated on September 20, 2024