### North Fork Community Mourns Loss of Captain Richard "Dick" Gibbs
**CUTCHOGUE** — The North Fork community is mourning the loss of a local maritime stalwart. Richard “Dick” Gibbs, a man whose life was deeply intertwined with the waters and history of the East End, passed away peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his family on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. He was 91 years old.
Known to many as "Captain Gibbs," he was a fixture of the region, having been born and raised on Main Street in Greenport. His deep-rooted connection to his hometown was interrupted only by his honorable three-year service in the United States Marine Corps, a period of his life that reflected the dedication and discipline he carried throughout his 91 years.
Captain Gibbs’ professional legacy was built upon the decks of the Plum Island Ferry, where he served with distinction for 45 years. Starting his career as a deckhand, his hard work and mastery of the craft saw him rise through the ranks to eventually command the vessel as captain—a testament to his character and commitment to his trade.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gibbs was a man of warmth and vibrant spirit. His family fondly recalls how he met his first wife, Carole, at a roller rink in 1956, where he was known to show off his impressive skating moves. The couple was married for 17 years and raised three children together: Rick, Dawn, and Kim. Later in life, he expanded his family further after meeting Anita Fiore, welcoming her daughters, Cheryl and Danielle, into his life and heart.
A man who valued his heritage and his lineage, Dick took immense pride in his role as a grandfather to Caroline, Carley, Zach, Breana, Luke, Kaitlyn, Skylar, and Macy, and as a great-grandfather to young Carson.
The community is invited to pay their respects during a visitation and brief service to be held at the DeFriest-Grattan Funeral Home in Southold this Sunday, March 22, from 4 to 7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Legion, Burton Potter Post 185, in Greenport. Contributions can be sent via mail to P.O. Box 125, Greenport, NY 11944, or processed directly through their website.
