Lorenzo Isaiah Gibbs
To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.
Obituary
Born on Sunday, May 18, 1997, in Fairbanks, Alaska, Lorenzo Isaiah Gibbs entered the world and left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. Though many may know him as Lorenzo, his family lovingly called him Isaiah. His kindness, generosity, and gentle spirit will remain a lasting legacy to all who loved him. Isaiah was born into a military family. Though frequent moves were not always easy, they allowed him to experience different cultures and communities, helping him develop a natural ability to connect with people from all walks of life. As a child, he loved spending time outside with friends, skateboarding, and playing Magic: The Gathering. As he grew older, Isaiah found joy in gaming, pickleball, and cooking. While he jokingly spoke about becoming a pickleball champion, his true passion revealed itself in the kitchen. Cooking became his way of caring for others. He believed that sharing food brought people together, and he carried that belief into every meal he prepared. One of Isaiah’s favorite traditions was what he called his Friday “date night.” At the end of each week, he would cook a meal he had thoughtfully planned, taking pride in every detail. It was his way of celebrating the week’s accomplishments and reminding himself that self-care mattered. Over time, those quiet evenings turned into something greater. Isaiah began welcoming friends and others into his home whenever they needed a hot meal or good company. His kitchen and his table were always open. When someone hesitated to accept, he would simply smile and say, “Well, I made too much.” That was who Lorenzo was: someone who gave freely of his time, his care, and his heart, one meal at a time. Isaiah was also gifted with computers and technology. Though many expected him to pursue a career in information technology, he chose a different path. He attended James Madison University and joined the Air Force ROTC program, motivated by a desire to serve and protect others. There, he quickly earned the respect of both his peers and his cadre while balancing a demanding course load and helping support fellow cadets. When his original ROTC goal did not work out, Isaiah faced the challenge with resilience and faith. With encouragement from loved ones, he found a new direction in JMU’s Integrated Science and Technology program, concentrating in applied biotechnology and industrial and manufacturing systems while also pursuing a minor in philosophy. Isaiah was gentle, compassionate, and quietly brilliant. His dry sense of humor and warm presence made others feel welcome, valued, and understood.
Sending Your Love
Should you have questions or wish to visit or speak with the family please reach out to Olivia Gibbs 571.926.6092 via text
Hotel Information
Use the verbal code (Lorenzo Celebration of Life) Rate $129/night and $10/pp breakfast
Gallery
Memory wall
The Colters
Lorenzo Gibbs was a great man and a role-model for all those who had the pleasure of knowing him. You will live on in our hearts and minds at JMU forever. Peace be with you.
I miss you man. Rest in peace.
Bubbidie’s For Life
Service
We will come together to remember and pay tribute to the wonderful person. While we mourn the loss of our dear Isaiah, we also aim to cherish the moments shared and the joy brought into our lives. Your presence would mean a great deal to us during this time of remembrance and reflection.
Dumfries, Virginia 22025-1920
Donations
Together, let us continue the legacy of compassion and kindness that Lorenzo embodied throughout his life.
If you would like to donate towards funeral costs, please use CashApp code: $ZoQu3
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