George Hibdon

George Elby Hibdon passed away on Monday, June 15, 2009 at Enloe Hospital after a brief illness (pneumonia). He was born on February 29, 1920 (the 6th of 8 children) to George Henry and Mattie Hibdon in Kenefec Oklahoma. After leaving Texas, the family moved to Orland in 1938. He graduated from Orland High School in 1939. At the age of 89, and married 65 years, George is survived by his loving wife, Elsie Luffman Hibdon; sons, Greg (Maria) and Alan Hibdon; grandchildren, Thomas and Lisa; sister, Beth Jasper and brother, Ray Hibdon of Orland. George was preceded in death by siblings, Floyd, Roxie, Curtis, Jimmy, and Travis. Many friends and family have all been blessed by George being a part of their lives. George will be long remembered for his friendliness, willingness to serve, and his love of teaching and the outdoors. He thoroughly enjoyed family, hunting, fishing, games, sports, and his retirement. George met Elsie Luffman at a USO dance in Ocala, Florida in 1942, and in 1943 they married. He served proudly in the Army from 1942 to 1946 and was stationed in Florida, Louisiana, and the Philippines. He was a radar operator and served in an intelligence unit in the Philippines. George received his Bachelor of Arts degree from CSU Chico in 1950. He was a teacher and elementary school administrator for Chico Unified School District for 29 years at Shasta Union, Oakdale, Marigold, and Rosedale Elementary schools. George was a president, Lion of the Year several times, and the last charter member of the Chico Breakfast Lion's Club with 55 years perfect attendance and serving on a project as recently as May. He was also an active member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Phi Delta Kappa (president), SIRS 110, and California Retired Teachers. A Memorial service for George will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church on Sunday June 28, 2009 at 4 p.m. A public viewing will be held on Friday, June 19, 2009 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Bidwell Chapel at 3rd and Normal in Chico. There will be a private, family burial. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, Chico Breakfast Lion's Club, or a charity of your choice in care of Brusie Funeral Home.