John F. Gebhardt, best known as "Gibby", of Virginia, Illinois, died Thursday, August 21, 2025, at his residence, just one day shy of his 80th birthday.

He was born August 22, 1945, in North Carolina to Kent and Gussie (Moore) Gebhardt. He married Carolyn McClure on February 18, 1967, in Salem, Arkansas.

John is survived by his wife; daughter, Rachel (Mark) Ruppel; son, Ty (Kristy) Gebhardt; five grandchildren, Drew and Tim (Stefani) Ruppel, Whitney (Cameron) Hager, and Avery and Kyndal Gebhardt; two great-grandsons, Jackson and Archer Ruppel; two sisters, Barb (Jim) Weishaar and Deb Witcomb; and one brother, Rich (Michele) Gebhardt.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers, George Gebhardt (surviving wife, Bert) and Alf Gebhardt, (surviving companion, Barb).

John was drafted in 1967, served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War until his honorable discharge with a rank of Seargent in December of 1969.

He worked hard all his life, beginning at J Capps & Sons, then Virginia Packing Plant until its closure, and finally the City of Virginia for 48 years, with the last 29 of those years as Park Director. Gibby lived most of his life at the ballpark – as a player, coach, umpire, proud dad and grandpa, and a worker. He coached Boys Grade School Baseball, winning 4th at State in 1975, and High School Girls Softball until handing the reins over to his son Ty, who continues the tradition today. Gibby was a life-long St. Louis Cardinals Baseball and Pittsburg Steelers Football fan. He loved his family, friends, and community with his whole heart.

Cremation rites have been appointed and there will be a private family graveside service with burial at Walnut Ridge Cemetery in Virginia. A Celebration of Life will be held from 2:00 - 5:00 PM on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at the Virginia United Methodist Church. Memorial donations are suggested to the Virginia Park System. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Virginia is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be left at buchanancody.com.