Retired North Haven Police Captain Hayes W.”Buddy” Gibson, Jr., 93, of North Haven passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 20th, 2020 at the Whitney Manor, Hamden. He was the beloved husband of Josepha H. Story. He was born in New Haven on September 14, 1926 and was the son of the late Hayes W. Gibson, Sr. and Clara B. Evans Gibson. He served his country faithfully in the US Army during WW II. Captain Gibson joined the North Haven Police Department in 1957 and was the towns first black police officer, and the first in any New Haven suburb. He was promoted to sergeant inspector and then captain. He genuinely enjoyed the traffic division, it got him outside where he enjoyed meeting and talking to many of the town’s residents. He served 32 years with the department and later Captain Gibson was voted to serve on the Board of the North Haven Town Police Commissioners. Besides police work, two things have always been close to his heart, sports, and children. He pulled the two together when he formed the Unknown Seven basketball team to give black youths in town something to do. During his retirement, Captain Gibson worked at the Oakdale Theater in Wallingford doing what he loved, directing traffic. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, was an avid golfer and enjoyed animals, especially his dogs. Stepfather of Martha Corazzini and the late Susan Gibson. Brother of Ella, Wilbert and the late Sara, Willa-Mae, Anna, Mamie, Helen, and Margaret. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
A graveside service will be conducted on Saturday morning, May 23rd at 11:30 at the Center Cemetery, Elm Street, North Haven. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to an animal charity of one’s choice. The Havens Family, North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue has been entrusted with the arrangements
Hayes was a person to admire, to emulate and a genuinely good guy.
North Haven has lost an original. Condolences to his family
My condolences to Jo, Martha, and his extended family. Captain Gibson was an inspiration to all officers and the community he served. Lessons on life and kindness were always at the top of his list. We all miss this great man.
What a great man and policemen. He would always stop to talk to my small group of friends whenever he saw us hanging out at the Peter Pan store plaza..
There will never be another Officer Hayes
He alway commanded respect and was admired by everyone a great person.
RIP officer
Hayes Gibson was simply a joy to be around. The World would be a better place if there were more Folks like Him! The values he added to so many lives is immeasurable. His positive examples he lived by, will long be remembered.
There are no words to comfort this family but I am sorry for your loss. The town also lost one if it’s greatest servants and I hope he walks happily amongst the angels in heaven. Always a gentleman and honest policeman. He will be remembered fondly by all north haveners. Rest In Peace our friend. You served wisely and with honor.
Dear Wilbert and Ella, I am sad to hear about the lost of your brother Hayes. Please accept my deepest condolences to you and your family. I pray God will comfort you and give you peace especially during this difficult time .
Dear Martha and Josepha,
I am so sorry for your loss. May the memories of Hayes comfort you during this difficult time. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Love Michele
This world has lost one of its most wonderful people. Anyone who was fortunate enough to know Capt. Gibson is surely a better person for knowing Buddy. As I was growing up, there were many times Buddy was there for me when I needed guidance, wisdom and a shoulder. Even though it is decades since I saw Buddy, I think about him almost every day as Buddy is one of the reasons I became a cop. We miss you – Rest in Peace Captain.
To the family of Buddy we are so sorry for your loss, may he rest in peace with the Lord.
Dear Josepha and Martha
My deepest sympathy so sorry for your loss!!
May he Rest In Peace.