Charlie "Big Hopie" Gibbs, Sr.

Charlie Gibbs, Sr., better known as “Big Hopie,” went to be with the Lord on May 5, 2026. Born on April 28, 1949, he was a lifelong native of Poquoson and a proud Poquoson Waterman.

Big Hopie dedicated much of his life to working on the water, from haul seining to making nets, and he carried a deep love for the waterman way of life. A devoted Christian, he was also passionate about coaching youth sports and investing in the lives of young people in his community.

He is now reunited in Heaven with his beloved son, Calvin Lee Gibbs; his father, Robert Calvin Gibbs, Sr.; his brothers, Robert Calvin Gibbs, Jr. and Mark Steven Gibbs; and his grandparents, Big Mama and Uncle Hope Jordan.

His memory will be forever cherished by his loving wife, Debra Gibbs; his children, Charlie Estridge Gibbs, Jr. (Kristina Clifford) and Chris Gibbs (Valarie Torrenti); his bonus daughter, Alexus Gibbs; his grandchildren, Ella Grace Gibbs, Isaiah Lassiter, Madisyn Torrenti, Morgan Torrenti, Kaefen Gibbs, Mason Lassiter, Avery Torrenti, Will Gibbs, Logan Wahls, and Nathan Gibbs; and his great-grandchild, Christopher Kaefen Gibbs, Jr.

He also leaves behind his mother, Helen B. Gibbs; his siblings, Kevin L. Gibbs (Mary Gibbs), Dottie Gibbs, and Will Gibbs (Tracy Gibbs); his adopted grandchildren, Abby Nardoianni, Jackson Yea, Levi Yea, and Tori Jaminson; his best buddy, Scott Bloxom; his lifelong friend, Maxine Hubbard; and his World of Tanks buddy, Useful (Sam Fugatt).

A Celebration of Life will be held from 2:00pm-6:00pm on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at the home of Chris and Valerie at 145 Bennett Road, Poquoson. 

Memorial contributions may be made to a Poquoson youth sport organization of your choosing, as supporting youth athletics was very close to his heart.

Arrangements and heartfelt guidance through Claytor Rollins Funeral Home.
Online condolences to claytorrollins.com.

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