Gary Tibbetts, a staffer for U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, passed away on July 24, 2020. Mr. Tibbetts, a long-time resident of Sarasota, had worked in Rep. Buchanan’s office since 2011.
"He touched so many lives and was loved and respected by those who knew him," Rep. Buchanan said in a social media statement. "I will never forget his uplifting spirit, sense of humor, and sheer joy at helping others. He will be greatly missed.”
Tibbetts lived in Manatee County, Florida, since 2003. Before coming to Florida, Tibbetts spent 26 years with the Manchester Police Department in New Hampshire, where he was a sergeant. His duties ranged from juvenile services to the SWAT unit.
Tibbetts joined Buchanan’s staff as a 16th Congressional District field representative. His law enforcement background helped him liaison between the congressman’s office and local police agencies.
Memorial donations may be made to:
- The Bishop Museum of Science & Nature, 201 10th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34205, www.bishopscience.org, or
- Selah Freedom, PO Box 21415 Sarasota, FL 34276, www.selahfreedom.com.
Obituary at Brown & Sons Funeral Home
Pictured below: The Bishop Museum's "Backyard Universe" educational exhibit. Donations may be made to the Museum in memory of Gary Tibbetts.
