Stephen Gibbons, 76, of Westerly, RI, passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, with dignity and grace after a long illness. He was the husband of the late Martha (Paris) Gibbons.

Born in Providence, RI, he was the son of the late Walter and Lucille (LeTellier) Gibbons.

He is survived by his children, Vanessa Gibbons (Paul) of Wakefield, RI, Michael Gibbons of New York, NY, and Alison Gibbons (Michael) of Coventry, RI. He is also survived by his sister, Christine Robert of Charlestown, RI. He was the cherished grandfather of John Henry Pollock. He was also a beloved uncle and great-uncle.

He leaves behind his dog, Nico, who was his constant companion for the last 13 years. Nico was raised from a puppy by Stephen and his longtime companion, Agnes Price, who passed away in 2016.

Stephen was born in Providence, RI, and grew up in Lincoln, RI. He attended Boston College before moving to New York City. He married Martha Paris on June 29, 1974, at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Manhattan. Stephen and Martha resided in Port Washington, New York, where they raised their three children. They were married for 29 years until Martha's death in 2004. After her passing, Stephen moved back "home" to Rhode Island to be closer to his mother and sister, whom he adored.

Stephen's work as a chef took him from Cape Cod to New York City. Most significant in his career was his time as head chef at Louie's Shore Restaurant, where he worked for more than two decades. Louie's truly became a home away from home, as he worked alongside his wife and all three of his children there. It was also there that he instilled a strong work ethic in his children, who witnessed the sacrifices and long hours he devoted to providing for his family. In his later years, before retiring, he worked as a chef at various senior living facilities throughout Rhode Island.

Cooking and food were truly Stephen's passions. He read cookbooks like novels. Even in his final months, as his health was fading, he continued researching recipes he wanted to try and writing down those he had committed to memory for his family to keep.

Stephen was an avid Boston sports fan who loved baseball, basketball, hockey, and football. He also enjoyed playing and watching golf. His all-time sports hero was Muhammad Ali, and he was fortunate enough to meet him twice. Stephen loved the outdoors, whether spending a day at the beach, camping in the woods, or simply sitting in his front yard. He also enjoyed relaxing while watching Gunsmoke and film noir movies, as well as listening to his favorite band, The Rolling Stones. In 2024, he was able to fulfill a lifelong dream when he saw them perform live in concert.

Those fortunate enough to have known Stephen will remember him most for being a great conversationalist and for his sense of humor. He was well-versed in many topics and current events, which led to countless rich conversations. He was also blessed with a dry, dark sense of humor and impeccable timing. His family could hear the same joke or story 30 times and still laugh just as hard as they did the first time because of the way Stephen told it.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Stephen's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Arrangements are with Avery & Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia Street, Wakefield, RI 02879. As per Stephen's wishes, a Catholic Mass is planned for late summer or early fall. If you would like to be added to an email list for notification of the service, please email gibbonsvo@gmail.com.