Gary L. Hibbs

Gary Lee Hibbs, born on November 7, 1942, in Thayer, Kansas, passed away on January 31, 2026, in Topeka, Kansas at the age of 83. He lived a rich and fulfilling life as a loving husband, a proud father, and a cherished grandfather. Gary bravely battled Parkinson’s disease at the end of his life, and was cared for by his family and nursing team at Brewster Place. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Dorothy (Stafford) Hibbs. 

Gary graduated from Chanute High School, followed by earning his bachelor's degree in Architecture from Kansas State University. His academic accomplishments laid a strong foundation for a career marked by creativity and commitment to the architectural profession. Gary served as an architect & partner for the Kiene and Bradley Design Group, where his notable projects include the Judicial Center in Topeka, various education centers including schools in the Auburn-Washburn school district, and several Capital Federal bank buildings in the Topeka and Kansas City areas. 

Gary met the love of his life, Jane, through his pledge dad in his fraternity at KSU. He married Jane Ann Sherer on October 1, 1966, in Mullinville, Kansas. Together they raised two daughters, Susan (Patrick) Smith and Amy (Damien) Gingrich. Gary felt an enormous amount of pride in seeing his daughters become successful in their careers, and sharing a common love for art and design. Gary delighted in his role as a grandfather, leaving behind cherished memories with his grandchildren: Lauren (Cole) Smith, Mackenzie Smith, Jasper Gingrich, and Emerson Gingrich. 

In addition to his professional endeavors, Gary had many interests. He was particularly fond of his International Harvester Tractor collection and antique tools, which reflected his lifelong interest in handiwork. He enjoyed collecting antiques and demonstrated his craftsmanship by designing and building the home that his family lived in for over fifty years. His dedication extended beyond personal interests, as he was an active member of Countryside United Methodist Church since 1978, Mason Lodge, the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a U.S. Army veteran serving in both Vietnam and the Reserves. He was also a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon while at K-State and served as the Past President and a founding board member of the Ronald McDonald House of Northeast Kansas. Gary maintained an active role in the KSU Alumni Association, and loved attending football games with his in-laws and Jane. 

Gary's legacy will endure through the love and memories shared by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. We lovingly remember him for his intelligent mind, his witty spirit, his loyalty to his friends and family, and his attention to detail. Gary strived to give back to his community and those around him through his actions, time and donations. Gary quietly and humbly committed himself to this spirit of service throughout his life. 

A memorial service will be held at 11:00am on Friday, February 13, 2026 at Countryside United Methodist Church in Topeka. His family will greet friends and relatives one hour prior to the service. In his honor, memorial contributions may be made to the Ronald McDonald House 825 SW Buchanan, Topeka, KS 66606. 

To leave a message for his family online, please visit the guestbook below.