Silas John Gibbons was born on August 1, 1932 to loving parents Samuel and Susanna. He was the eldest son of seven children, with whom he spent his childhood days along the shores of Fair Island, Newfoundland. Silas passed peacefully on February 13, 2022, at the age of 89 at St. Patrick’s Mercy Home in St. John’s, NL.

Silas valued hard work, but also took time to enjoy life’s pleasures. He spent his working life as a sailor and iron worker. His final project was the Hibernia platform – a picture of the finished project and crew was proudly displayed in his home. When not working, Silas enjoyed tending to his gardens, making woodworking projects for his and his family’s homes, taking part as a proud member of the Indian Bay Lions Club, and catching the odd baseball game or episode of Jeopardy. Silas truly shined in family life. He was a devoted husband to Caroline (Carrie), his wife of 64 years. All were in awe of how he wholeheartedly cared for and loved her everyday of their life together. 

Silas and Carrie built a life and a family that was strong, happy, and full of love. They had five children, and joyously watched their family grow to include 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren (and still counting). As the family expanded and some wandered a little farther from home, he always managed to keep tabs on each and every member. As our protector, Silas always wanted to know his family was safe, and to ensure they felt his love and support from near and far. 

We will remember Silas as a quiet man of few words, with a bright smile and gentle chuckle, steady and stern demeanor that kept everyone on their toes, and an uncanny ability to get us where we had to be on time, or more often than not early. He was deeply loved and we will cherish the memories of our wonderful husband, father, granda, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and dear friend. 

Silas was predeceased by his parents Samuel and Susanna, brother Eldred,  and sisters Annie (Nelson – deceased) and Winifred. He is survived by his wife Caroline, daughters Melita (Dwight), Ruth (Scott), Paulette (Roger), Marilyn (David – deceased), and son Eldred (Charly), his sister and brothers, Dinah (Edgar), Samuel (Elizabeth), and Edgar (Jill), his dear grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and a large circle of close nieces and nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends. 

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