Leonard "Lenny" Gibbons

Leonard "Lenny" Gibbons, aged 84, passed away suddenly on January 22, 2026. Born on May 17, 1941, in Newark, NJ, Lenny was a beloved son, devoted husband, and doting father, leaving behind a legacy as grand as his personality.

Lenny was known for his unyielding charm and outgoing personality, traits that made him a friend to all and a stranger to none. He had an innate gift for making connections, which he perhaps cultivated during his illustrious days at Weequahic High School in Newark, NJ and Shaw University in North Carolina, where he not only excelled academically but also took charge as the president of the student council and the choral group—every club, it seemed, wanted a taste of Lenny.

After earning his master’s degree in counseling, Lenny spent his career dedicated to shaping the lives of youth through his work in probation and corrections, culminating as a beloved school social worker in Camden City Schools. His humor and generosity touched countless lives, instilling hope and guidance in those who needed it most.

In the realm of sports, Lenny was unparalleled, claiming knowledge of curling before it was cool and enthusiastically watching every sport on television. Whether it was playing baseball and football in his youth or hitting the racquetball court twice weekly, his continued passion for sports transitioned to golf—hand-in-hand with his wife, Mardi, whose deep passion for the game fueled his own. Lenny could often be found volunteering at the golf club after retirement, proving that his spirit of community was as strong as his affinity for a good game.

An adoring father to Maya Angela Lewis and Nikki Len Coleman and a proud grandfather to Aseeli, Dahyo, Amari, Laila, and Joya. He cherished his role as a grandfather to Aseeli, Dahyo, Amari, Laila, and Joya, often attending every concert, play, and game. To them, he was not only a grandfather but a cheering squad that could make even the most mundane occasions feel like grand festivities. 

Lenny’s departure leaves a gap wider than anyone could imagine. He is predeceased by his beloved mother, Theresa Viola Gibbons, and beloved wife, Martha Ellen "Mardi" Gibbons. Lenny is survived by many relatives, including son-in-laws Landrus Lewis and Douglas Coleman, as well as cousins Helena Smith, Gail Leonard, and countless other treasured family members and dear friends. He has undoubtedly left this world a little brighter and a lot happier.  

Those wishing to pay their respects can join us for Lenny’s memorial service at The Riverton Country Club, Cinnaminson, NJ, on March 6th from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Moorestown Friends School, Camden Scholars Program, a cause that would surely bring a smile to Lenny's face.

As we celebrate a life well lived, filled with laughter and love, let us remember Lenny not with tears, but with laughter, as he would have wanted. After all, if there was one thing Lenny taught us, it was that life is too brief not to find happiness and joy.