Hello, I'm sorry if I'm bothering you... I stumbled on your page accidentally. Not only is my husband in the army, but I am also. He's currently deployed and I will be leaving in November. I just want to tell you to keep your head up and stay strong. I will be forever grateful for his sacrifice. I'm so sorry for your loss and I wish you the best. I can't imagine ever losing one of my children. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
God Bless!
Cara
Thank you for enduring the pain of sacrifice with the passing of your son. I saw Devon’s name on a show today as one of the brave American’s that passed away from Iraq. I have four children, 13, 11, 9, and 2 and it is your son’s sacrifice that keeps us safe at night. Thank you again he is a true Hero and a great American.
Will
I just wanted to say thank you for your
son's sacrifice. I never knew Devon, But I wish I had. He gave up
his own life so that we could continue to be free, continue to walk
the streets without fear. A freedom he was trying to help pass on to
the people of Iraq. Thank you so much for bringing someone like
Devon into this world. People like Devon are my Hero.
Katie
To Devon's family and friends,
Today I was on line with the Bremerton Sun's website and I saw the article about your beloved son. I had seen other articles in the Sun while reading the paper at my daughters. But today I clicked on the website that you had established with Devon's update. I read every entry, for I wanted to know Devon better. He is my hero and truly a son of Our Heavenly Father. I have gained such inner peace and reaffirmation of my love for our Father In Heaven after the hours of reading that I just did.
I have another hero, my nephew, Sgt. Randall Minton, Army. He returned safe and sound to us from the war in Iraq in April of this year. He served his country with honor and supports the war. There was a moment in time when I wanted to support the protesters to end the war. Randall's mother said to me "please don't do that it would break Randy's heart". I support our troops with prayer and will until the end of this fight for freedom. Devon only reassured me of my pledge to myself. Thank you for sharing Devon with us. I made a shadow box for my nephew with the bracelets that I wore every day that he was at war a tribute to him and his love of his country. I thank my Heavenly Father daily for his blessings on my family and our servicemen and women.
I know that Devon returned to our Heavenly Father, at our Father in Heavens request and he did it proudly as any good soldier and son of a Heavenly Father would. I feel at peace for Devon for his heavenly plans must be great. My tears are for you his family, friends new and old. For such a wonderful person will surely be missed. I look forward to meeting him in heaven some day. After reading the daily struggle of Devon I want to tell his parents that their faith in God was something to shout about.
Carol Shaw
christmascarol1224@Comcast. net
Bremerton, Wa
Mel and family,
My wife and I read "The Sun" this weekend that told of your sons passing and well it was very moving...my wife couldn't finish the article she just cried. What an incredible son Devon is. I have been following the updates on Devon's internet site, I am truly amazed at Devon's and your whole families actions - a testament to your faith, devotion to family and love for a true patriot, model citizen and most of all loving son. What a wonderful family you have. Prayers to you all in this difficult time.
Jeff Harris and Family
I am sorry to hear of your loss, words cannot obvious express this enough.
While I did not know your son, I was a soldier for 8 years once and any soldier is a brother to me.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I have 6000 other brothers that will receive your email and send their blessings shortly.Scott Turchin
MCSE,MCP+I,
BAE Systems,ASM Webmaster
360-396-4301
\I came to know Devon and your family when I received an email one day. The email was about the terrible incident that occurred and your web site information. Since that day, I have had the pleasure of knowing a true American hero. My deepest sympathies go out to your family. There are no words to express the sadness I feel. I have never met your family, and probably never will, but I want you to know that it brings a tear my eyes seeing all the people who have supported your family and Devon in this trying time. America has lost another hero. There are no words to help ease your pain. May God bless your family.
Love,
Janell Finch and Family
Dear Family of Devon Gibbons,
My heart is truly saddened by the death of your cherished family member. Yes, indeed, Devon is a hero. He will remain in my heart forever. I pray that I can one day demonstrate the courage and commitment to God that Devon has demonstrated to a watching world. The strength you all have shown in your faith is a model for us all to follow. My humble prayers go out for you.
With much love and respect,
Jayme Caspall
Decatur, GA
We just want to say how sorry we are for the loss of your son. We have been praying for him. Our son-in-law works at Fort Sams and we had asked him to go and see your son and to let you, his family know how much our family here in Port Orchard was praying for him. I know that Brandon and Ryan will feel his loss. Our love goes out to all of you but as you say, Devon is now in the hands of the Lord and is no longer in pain. We will still remember all of you in our prayers.
Dennis and Linda Bourboulis
Mel, Bonnie and the boys,
Please know that my thoughts and prayers go out to your entire family. My memories of Devon are great ones. Whenever I came over to play with David, Devon was always right behind us, wanting to do what we were doing. And he truly has a smile that just fills up a room! What an enormous blessing it is, knowing that families are forever. And, that with each passing day, it brings you that much closer to seeing him! I love you all very much and may your family be strengthened and lifted up.
Teage Christensen
I HEARD ABOUT THE LOSS OF YOUR SON DEVON, AND I' AM VERY SORRY FOR YOU. I DIDN’T KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY SINCE YOU LEFT THE 9TH WARD SOME 30 YEARS AGO. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU, DANA BLAND.
Hello old friends!
We have been following all of this. Thank you for your faith and love. We mourn with you today, and join you in CELEBRATING Devon's well-lived life. Thank goodness we know what we know.
All our love and prayers,
Denise Wetmore Lund
American Fork, Utah
Mel and family,
Mel I am very sorry to hear about your families loss. I have been following what was going on on the website. Drew first let me know what was going on because he knew we were friends from the audit. I wanted to write a few times or call, but felt the e-mail was to impersonal and did not want to bother you by calling you. I just wanted to let you know you and your family have been in our thoughts and prayers and will continue to be there. You are one of those people that have a personality and affect on people. Just want to keep it short because I am sure you are getting a lot of e-mail, but again your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Greg Coffie
NNSY, Code 255
(757) 396-5466
Mel, Bonnie and boys
This is Rachelle Bourboulis and my family and I would like to extend our
condolences to you and your family. We followed Devon's daily successes and
struggles and also took time to remember the times we spent with Devon.
Although we did not know him well we remember his sense of humor and love
for life. He is our hero and he will always have a special place in our
hearts. Our thoughts and prayers will continue for those who now must go
on, for their road to recovery is also a long one. Thank you for sharing
Devon with us.
Ken, Rachelle, Brandon, Ryan and Blake
Gibbons Family,
My Name is Ron Salesberry. I am a Chief Warrant Officer in the Navy, and I have been on active duty for over twenty years. My wife Krista had the pleasure of teaching your son at SKHS. She teaches English. First, I would like to say thank you for Devon's service to his country, and I am very sorry for your loss. I find this letter hard to write. I am tearing up just trying to write this. I have two young boys myself, and I cannot imagine losing them. I have been following Devon's recovery since day one. Devon was a fighter, and a man that loved his country. To enlist in the Army or any Armed Forces at this present time comes with great bravery and sacrifice. Every Military Member knows what may happen, but not all are prepared. To be prepared you MUST have a strong family of support. Bonnie, Mel and your loving family, you have been the backbone of support since birth. The Military believes that Core Values, of Honor, Courage, and Commitment must be established, and teach this from day one of boot camp. Devon, was not taught this in the Military, he was taught these from his loving Mom and Dad, and they just carried over to his military career.
I am grateful for his service to our Country and yours as parents. You will be in my families thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely, Ron Salesberry
Chief Warrant Officer, USN
Dear Gibbons Family,
I was saddened to hear of Devon's passing. Each day I would check on his progress and marveled at his strength of body and spirit. It is such a blessing that you, his family, were able to spend time with him and when the end came it was peaceful and hopefully without pain. He is at peace now and for that we are grateful. We thank him and his wonderful family for his sacrifice.
Bob and Lenore Watkins,
Port Orchard, Wa.
Devon's strength and courage will continue to be a powerful witness to many of us - the rest of our days. Thank you for allowing us to
have a window into your world. Despite the tough days you've been
through and the days ahead I hope you find solace, rest, and
hope!
God Bless,
Jason Shdo
Rest young warrior, you gave your all. To the Devon Family God bless you. I know how
it feels to lose a child.
William Buettgenbach
Army / Vet
From the Hurtados
To the Gibbons family:
Words cannot express the sadness I felt when I learned today that Devon had died. Coming back from vacation on Sunday, June 18 I read the story in the San Antonio Express News to my husband and children in the car. My husband is an ex-Sailor and it’s hard for him to see a fellow serviceman lose his life in the Iraqi War. We were “rooting” for Devon. That article touched our lives. Our children listened closely as I read Devon’s story. He is a hero to us all. Now he is an Angel in heaven. Today I will go home and tell my husband and children that Devon finished the fight.
My heart goes out to you- his amazing family. I know that being a parent with three children the hurt you must feel losing such a “miraculous” child. We will pray for all of you this week. Devon is in HEAVEN, in Jesus loving arms. He is no longer suffering. He is smiling happily. There is a song I love to listen to when I think of my dad and brother that I lost several years ago. It is called “If You Could See Me Now” by TRUTH. I have attached the words. I hope this song brings you comfort as it has to me.
God Bless You DEVON and God Bless America. Mr. & Mrs. Gibbons thank you for sharing your “hero” with us.
Lord, Hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Amen
Barbara & Eddie Hurtado & family, San Marcos, TX
“IF YOU COULD SEE ME NOW”
Written by Kim Noblitt and performed by Truth
Our prayers have all been answered;
I’ve finally arrived;
The healing that had been delayed;
Has now been realized.
No one’s in a hurry;
There’s no schedule to keep;
We’re all enjoying Jesus;
Just sitting at His feet.
Chorus
If you could see me now;
I’m walking streets of gold.
If you could see me now;
I’m standing tall and whole.
If you could see me now;
You’d know I’d seen His face.
If you could see me now,
You’d know the pain’s erased.
You wouldn’t want me to ever leave this place.
If you could only see me now.
My light and temporary trials;
Have worked out for my good.
To know it brought Him glory;
When I misunderstood.
Though we’ve had our sorrows;
They can never compare;
What Jesus has in store for us;
No language can share.
To My Dear Baby Cousin Devon,
I am having a hard time of expressing how I feel! You are my baby Cousin and I am so proud of the Man you have become! I am so grateful to you for all you have done for Our Great Country! Many people have said how wrong this war is and how we have no business in this war. Oh Contraire... YOU GOT IT!! You at the young age of only 19 years old understood that this war is not in vain! You paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we, Grandparents, Mothers, Fathers, Brothers, Sisters, Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins...can live in a free Country and away from harm. Thank You Devon! I Love You and love to think back to when you were a baby. I was very fortunate to have lived with you and knew what a delight you were! I also was graced with having your parents...Teach me and guide me! I am so sad that you are no longer with us. It just doesn't seem right that you didn't get to grow old with us. But I know that you are with Our Father In Heaven now! You can rest now! We Love You and will always keep your Memory Alive!
To My Aunt, Uncle and Cousins,
I love you all so very much! I am so Lucky to be related to you all! I pray that the Lord continue to give you strength and comfort! I know that your Faith in the Lord has been what has carried you through such tragedy! You are wonderful roll-models! We will see you on Saturday!
Love you all,
Victoria and Rob
Bishop and Sister Gibbons, Sorry that we have not kept in touch. Sorry to here about Devon. We know that Devon is in a much better place and he will be awaiting for his family to go on into eternity. We would like to start email contact with you and your Family. Heather and I both miss all the good times that we have had with your Family. Heather would like to send this poem that she has written. Billy Foster
--The Final Call
The Lord came to me this evening and whispered,
"Your time is through."
"But how can it be." I questioned.
"I've got so much left to do."
"That's the thing," he answered.
"For life doesn't end beyond Earth."
"But continues ever forward.,
Just as Heaven didn't end with your birth."
"There is time enough in Eternity to complete what must be done."
There is time enough forever, for your Journey has just begun."
"But how can I go," I pleaded. "Leave all those who care?"
Come into the arms," he counseled,
"of one with only Love to share."
Gently as he took my hand-all sorrow left my soul.
Knowing not what lay ahead but, knowing I must go.
"Remember me." I whispered to those I left behind.
"For I'll remember you forever,
your hearts are etched upon my mind."
Once more he prompted the time had come
to leave this world below.
As I looked into his loving face
I answered, "I'm ready now to go."
Heather Foster
21 September 1997
How proud you must be to have raised such a wonderful son. His story is truly an inspiration to all. May God
be with your family always. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Love,
The Schulte Family (Seattle)
Ted, Suzanne, Amanda, Ben & Amanda
Hello, Mel and Bonnie,
This is Jessica McCann (our family is friends with Andrew). I look at the website daily, and when I heard about the sad news I was in shock and disbelief. I briefly talked with Mel, when I wrote the last time and he personally called to thank me for the letter. I told him that my family and I were getting info on doing a fundraiser for Devon and your family. We were trying to have it at the end of this month. I have wanted to come on here and write something to say, but it has taken me awhile to figure out what to say. We all mourn with you for the loss of your son/brother/friend. Like I said before Devon is our true hero. He showed perseverance, strength, and his belief in GOD. I found this little quote that I will leave here with you and your family. GOD bless and may Devon rest in peace eternally.
The angel hovered just above-
The lifeless form below-
A life that started with a cry-
Not many years ago.
Come now my son, you must arise-
Your work here now is ended-
You have fought for right and freedom-
Your country you have defended.
We go now to another place-
Where peace and love abide-
And join your comrades who will greet you-
In your heavenly home on high.
All those you love, and those who love you-
In their hearts you will forever be-
The one who gave his very all-
That the living may be free.
Jessica McCann
Dear Gibbon Family:
I want to thank you for sharing Devon's and your family's story with us over these past few weeks. I'm not certain that I can articulate or explain this well, but I feel that your sharing Devon's injuries, and sharing your family's difficult time while trying to support his recovery, was not only a great honor to Devon, but a great service to our nation as well. I have never seen a greater display of grace and courage, not only by Devon, but by your entire family.
Dave Barber
Seattle
We wanted to express our very sincere condolences on the loss of your son, Devon.
Even though we did not know him, his story touched our hearts.
We also pray for all of our other service men and women.
Thank you for sharing your story so openly.
(((hugs))) and love,
Wendy & Larry Ihlang
Musta Hevonen Farm
Rainier, WA
My heart goes out to you for the loss of
your precious son..... Iam so proud of him and for what he stood
for,,,,,I know he is watching from above and smilling down on all of
you... I know he has left so many great ememories that will last
till you meet again,,,, He is with you in the wind you feel blowing
across your face,,,, In the Sun shinning down on you,,,, He is the
brighest star shinning so bright at night in the sky,,,,
I pray you find the strength to handles this great loss....
I wish I could ease your pain only nothing but time will do that,,,God be with you and all who loved this fine Young AMERICAN HERO,,,
Cheryl Gross veteran Mom of Army SPC Gross- Iraq
May God be with this wonderful family and all of this Fine Young Soldiers loved ones,
I know this is so hard to understand and to loss something so precious,,,, A Son... I know he will forever be in your hearts and never leave till you meet again at the gates to Heaven,,,,
My prayers are with all of you,,,,
hugs and so many blessings
Cheryl Gross
Dear Gibbons family;
I just recently read about your son/ brother Devon. His and your experiences have brought great appreciation into my heart for all of your examples of faith, family and country. I no sooner got an email about his injuries and your incredible service and faith in helping Devon, but when I got a second email saying he passed away. This fourth of July we will remember Devon, and your family for the sacrifices you have made to help keep our country safe and free, as well as the lives of countless others in this world. He is truly a modern-day captain Moroni, and has written his title of liberty upon my heart.
Praying for your sustaining comfort,
Teresa Yetter, Mesa, AZ
To Mel and his family,
I know Mel as a co-employee and I was going to say that I did not know Devon (my daughter did however) but it turns out that I did know Devon. We all knew Devon. Devon was the American who fought for what he believed in. He was as brave as any man could be. He fought evil so that others could live in a free land. He stood for his beliefs and did not cower at those who thought otherwise. Now I am so happy for Devon. I know that as human beings we must mourn his passing but mourning is really a selfish thing in a way. It is OUR loss we mourn. Devon however has gained his reward. He is with his God. He is with everyone and everything he ever loved but passed before he did. He is with the buddies he last saw in the back of his Bradley. Maybe shooting some pool now! I don't know. I do know that the world is a better place for having hosted the life of Devon Gibbons. I just wanted Mel and his beautiful family to know that I have followed these events over the past ten weeks I have learned so much more about love. I read about it every day. Devon made that happen. For that and for Devon I will be forever grateful. May God continue to Bless and keep you and yours Mel forever in his love.
George Proulx & family
Port Orchard, WA.
Mel and family,
My wife and I read "The Sun" this weekend that told of your sons passing and well it was very moving...my wife couldn't finish the article she just cried. What an incredible son Devon is. I have been following the updates on Devon's internet site, I am truly amazed at Devon's and your whole families actions - a testament to your faith, devotion to family and love for a true patriot, model citizen and most of all loving son. What a wonderful family you have. Prayers to you all in this difficult time.
Jeff Harris and Family
I am sorry to hear of your loss, words cannot obvious express this enough.
While I did not know your son, I was a soldier for 8 years once and any soldier is a brother to me.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I have 6000 other brothers that will receive your email and send their blessings shortly.Turchin Scott
I came to know Devon and your family when I received an email one day. The email was about the terrible incident that occurred and your web site information. Since that day, I have had the pleasure of knowing a true American hero. My deepest sympathies go out to your family. There are no words to express the sadness I feel. I have never met your family, and probably never will, but I want you to know that it brings a tear my eyes seeing all the people who have supported your family and Devon in this trying time. America has lost another hero.
There are no words to help ease your pain. May God bless your family.
Love,
Janell Finch and Family
Dear Family of Devon Gibbons,
My heart is truly saddened by the death of your cherished family member. Yes, indeed, Devon is a hero. He will remain in my heart forever. I pray that I can one day demonstrate the courage and commitment to God that Devon has demonstrated to a watching world. The strength you all have shown in your faith is a model for us all to follow. My humble prayers go out for you.
With much love and respect,
Jayme Caspall
Decatur, GA
We just want to say how sorry we are for the loss of your son. We have been praying for him. Our son-in-law works at Fort Sams and we had asked him to go and see your son and to let you, his family know how much our family here in Port Orchard was praying for him. I know that Brandon and Ryan will feel his loss. Our love goes out to all of you but as you say, Devon is now in the hands of the Lord and is no longer in pain. We will still remember all of you in our prayers.
Dennis and Linda Bourboulis
Mel, Bonnie and the boys,
Please know that my thoughts and prayers go out to your entire family. My memories of Devon are great ones. Whenever I came over to play with David, Devon was always right behind us, wanting to do what we were doing. And he truly has a smile that just fills up a room! What an enormous blessing it is, knowing that families are forever. And, that with each passing day, it brings you that much closer to seeing him! I love you all very much and may your family be strengthened and lifted up.
Teage Christensen
I HEARD ABOUT THE LOSS OF YOUR SON DEVON, AND I' AM VERY SORRY FOR YOU. I DIDN’T KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY SINCE YOU LEFT THE 9TH WARD SOME 30 YEARS AGO.
MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU, DANA BLAND.
Hello old friends!
We have been following all of this. Thank you for your faith and love. We mourn with you today, and join you in CELEBRATING Devon's well-lived life. Thank goodness we know what we know.
All our love and prayers,
Denise Wetmore Lund
American Fork, Utah
Mel and family,
Mel I am very sorry to hear about your families loss. I have been following what was going on on the website. Drew first let me know what was going on because he knew we were friends from the audit. I wanted to write a few times or call, but felt the e-mail was to impersonal and did not want to bother you by calling you. I just wanted to let you know you and your family have been in our thoughts and prayers and wil continue to be there. You are one of those people that have a personality and affect on people. Just want to keep it short because I am sure you are getting a lot of e-mail, but again your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Greg Coffie
NNSY, Code 255
(757) 396-5466
Mel, Bonnie and boys
This is Rachelle Barbules and my family and I would like to extend our
condolences to you and your family. We followed Devon's daily successes and
struggles and also took time to remember the times we spent with Devon.
Although we did not know him well we remember his sense of humor and love
for life. He is our hero and he will always have a special place in our
hearts. Our thoughts and prayers will continue for those who now must go
on, for their road to recovery is also a long one. Thank you for sharing
Devon with us.
Ken, Rachelle, Brandon, Ryan and Blake
From Rose
Rest in peace "Sweet Boy".
Gibbons Family,
My Name is Ron Salesberry. I am a Chief Warrant Officer in the Navy, and I have been on active duty for over twenty years. My wife Krista had the pleasure of teaching your son at SKHS. She teaches English. First, I would like to say thank you for Devon's service to his country, and I am very sorry for your loss. I find this letter hard to write. I am tearing up just trying to write this. I have two young boys myself, and I cannot imagine losing them. I have been following Devon's recovery since day one. Devon was a fighter, and a man that loved his country. To enlist in the Army or any Armed Forces at this present time comes with great bravery and sacrifice. Every Military Member knows what may happen, but not all are prepared. To be prepared you MUST have a strong family of support. Bonnie, Mel and your loving family, you have been the backbone of support since birth. The Military believes that Core Values, of Honor, Courage, and Commitment must be established, and teach this from day one of boot camp. Devon, was not taught this in the Military, he was taught these from his loving Mom and Dad, and they just carried over to his military career.
I am grateful for his service to our Country and yours as parents. You will be in my families thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Ron Salesberry
Chief Warrant Officer, USN
Dear Gibbons Family,
I was saddened to hear of Devon's passing. Each day I would check on his progress and marveled at his strength of body and spirit. It is such a blessing that you, his family, were able to spend time with him and when the end came it was peaceful and hopefully without pain. He is at peace now and for that we are grateful. We thank him and his wonderful family for his sacrifice.
Bob and Lenore Watkins,
Port Orchard, Wa.
Devon's strength and courage will continue to be a powerful witness to many of us - the rest of our days. Thank you for allowing us to
have a window into your world. Despite the tough days you've been
through and the days ahead I hope you find solace, rest, and
hope!
God Bless,
Jason Shdo
Rest young warrior, you gave your all. To the Devon Family God bless you. I know how
it feels to lose a child.
William Buettgenbach
Army / Vet
To The Gibbons Family,
I wish to extend my heartfelt sympathy for your loss, and please know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you .
I'm grateful that you extended to all of us the privilege of following Devon's story on this page. It was an inspiration to read about your hero, and it was also an inspiration to witness the deep faith of your entire family. I pray that faith will sustain you in the days ahead.
In His Love,
Kathi
Member of Soldiers Angels
Dearest friends,
My heart is heavy for your loss. I was out of town for four days starting Friday, so only last night did I learn that Devon had passed away on Friday.
It was TRULY my honor to tell of Devon's sacrifice and MY privilege to share intimately in your journey, during the three conversations we had over the last ten weeks, and the stories you allowed me to tell.
I trust he IS with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and that you are all sustained by that.
I wish so very much that I could attend the funeral service on Saturday, but it is my youngest child's birthday, so I will be unable to. But I will be in thought of you.
When things begin to return to some sense of normalcy for your family, I would really like to meet you face to face, if possible.
Thank you for sending the updates and e-mails on Devon. Thank you for your son and for honoring him the way you all have during his last days on earth. What an amazing family The Gibbons' are!
Please let me know if I can do anything to help you.
God Bless you and keep you in this time of need.
Your friend,
Carleen Johnson
KOMO/KVI radio
206-404-3405
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Gibbons:
May I offer my deepest condolences to you both and your family upon the home-going of your American hero son, Devon. I have prayed for Devon often and shared his story with many others who are equally concerned about him and your family.
It is my prayer, that God, in His mercy, will grant you all an extra measure of peace, comfort and strength during this difficult time.
May Devon's legacy of bravery, devotion to duty, and self-sacrifice always be remembered by a grateful nation, and may he be welcomed home by a loving Savior forever to live in His glory and peace.
Sincerely, with deepest sympathy,
Arnold M. Huskins
Major, USAF, Retired
Army 1977-81, 88-92
BAMC volunteer
DEAR GIBBONS FAMILY: I'M SO SORRY TO HEAR OF DEVON'S PASSING. HE WAS A WONDERFUL HUMAN BEING. MAY GOD HOLD YOU IN HIS HEART AS HE COMFORTS AND HEALS YOU. DEVON IS RESTING IN THE LOVING ARMS OF JESUS NOW AND SHINES AS AN EVERLASTING HERO IN ALL OUR HEARTS. GOD BLESS YOU AND COMFORT YOU. LOVE AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO ALL OF YOU.
SINCERELY, LINDA CANO
I am so sorry to read of Devon's passing. I am glad you were able to spend some time with him before his passing and you have your strong faith to guide you.
I lived and worked years ago in Port Orchard and still have ties to the area.
Sincerely
Ron Merritt
RCHQ
Yanbu, Saudi Arabia
Our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Devon from our family in Seattle and from my brother’s family back in Australia who is tracking your website.
Both families are grateful for Devon's dedication, service and sacrifice.
The key verse from “For The Fallen” (London, 1914, Binyon)
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.
Again, our deepest sympathies.
Storey family
Seattle, WA
Storey family
Hobart
Tasmania
Australia
This note is not for Devon, this note is for
his family. I have just read the few pages on the struggle and of
your loss and the trials your son fought with before
going home to Jesus. While I am saddened for his pain and loss, I
know that he was a Scout and the cav scouts are a special type of
person, so his power and faith are no surprise. He will be in my
prayers.
Who I am sending this note to is you his family, I have read many things over the years and met many people, I don't think that I have been touched by a story, that shows the power and love of Gods faith and compassion so well. Your ability to not only live what so many of us try to be. Your family's service to those around them and the reflection of who you are, by your friends and those that you have touched around you. ( Reading the notes from all those who have sent letters) shows the light of belief and love.
All of you are so lucky to have each other and to have the strength of your family, Devon was truly blessed to have been part of that. You gave him so much that it is no surprise that he gives just a small piece of that back to others by his service.
Blessed Be;
Mike Donnelly
19d 1990-96
Mel – I been chewin’ on how I can express my sincere condolences to you and your family. I just ain’t got the words, but I’ve read some great words in my life and a couple come to mind. They’re from Thomas Paine, the author of “Common Sense”
"We fight not to enslave, but to set a country free, and to make room upon the earth for honest men to live in. ... Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must, like men, undergo the fatigues of supporting it." "These are the times that try men's souls: The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country; but he that stands it NOW, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman."
I had an old Shoshone warrior tell me one time “If nobody tells stories about you around the campfire after you cross over – it’s the same as if you were never here” So tell them stories round the campfire about Devon – teach ‘em to your grand kids and tell them to teach their grand kids.
Mace J. R. Jr., B808726, U. S. N. Gunner's Mate
Republic of Viet Nam "67"
Although I have sent you an email regarding Devon, I only thought it appropriate to address you two, Bonnie and Mel.
I have never in my life seen such fortitude and undying faith as the two of you have displayed in the support of your
son. May God Bless you both, that you have found this strength for him and may HE now comfort you in your loss.
In this day of less religion, violence on the streets, and less guidance of children by their parents, may your
example spread among other people, as it did to me, to do the the "right" thing despite the consequences.
May God Bless you and Comfort You through all the days of your lives.Mike and Kim
I heard about Devon's death through E-Mail today. I am sorry for you loss but I know that he is in a better place and died while serving his country. I only met Devon on a few occacions, but he really impresed me and I wish I would of had the chance to get to know him better in this lifetime. I wish I could be at the funeral on saturday, but considering the fact that I now live in Ogden, Utah it will be hard to make it up on such short notice. I will however try my best to make it up to Port Orchard on Saturday if I can. May God be with you in you time of need. Your family will contuine to be in my prayers as well as thoses of my parents.
Jerry Fewell
Bonnie, Mel and family- We sent you an email early on about our family members that have served in the
military. My great uncle who flew in World War II and was shot down and returned to the states with a flag draped over his cascet. It is proudly displayed in my sister's living room and my father was named after him. My father
then served in the Navy, only to find out my mother was pregnant with me and although he doesn't know it, thank
God he chose at that time to come home and be a father to me. My uncle then joined the Navy at the suggestion of
my father when the draft was in place and he was destined to go to the army. Through diligent work he worked his
way to Command Master Chief of the Harry S. Truman and then honorably retired. (Not before being considered
upon only two other candiates for Migpon of the Navy.) Now, his son Zachary Carbo has achieved status as an
Army Ranger and is now pursuing furthering his skills through specialized Army Ranger training. He has already
been in Afghanastan and Iraq and will be returning to Iraq soon.
Why you may be thinking do I babble on about by family when you have lost your son? It may seem insensitive
but the purpose is to let you know, I have put myself in all of your family's shoes and realize although my family
members chose, as your son did, to serve our country; we have yet to endure the sacrifice that your son did or
your family did. I am so impressed with your strength and faith in your religion and know what it is what has brought Devon and your family through this challenging time.
Bonnie and Mel, when you feel up it it, that you pray for my cousin,
Zachary Carbo, US ARMY RANGERS, that he return safe and whole. I am sorry we will miss Devon's service but
will be there is spirit!
With all our love,
Dr. and Mrs. Michael Gannon
11619 Orchard Mountain Dr.
Houston, Texas 77059
713-478-4604
Mel, Bonnie, and family,
i knew your son very well in high school we graduated together. he was an amazing person. i remember talking to Devon befor he left and he was so excited to go and serve our country. when i heard about what happened all i could think was " not the Devon i know it cant be" but when i saw his picture i was shocked! i couldnt believe it, someone so close to home, how could this happen? i prayed every night and he was always on my mind. my best friend called me late friday night and told me what had happened.... i couldnt stop crying. but i know that now he is in a better place, it took me awile to understand that, and i still am going to miss him... my boyfriend of three years Jared Martin just left about a mounth ago for iraq. im so scaired about him being there. you and your family are stll in my prayers. you have gone through so much and i couldnt imagine doing what you did.. Devon means so much to me and im going to miss him. thank you for keeping updates that we all could read. your all in my prayers....
Whitney Rodney SKHS
We wish you the very best in faith and peace. Some things we never understand.
Shirley Thomas & family
i would just like to say im so sorry for your loss im very proud he went to fight for our country their are so many men and women who have lost their lives for us and i just want to thank him for doing so even though he is gone he will not be forgotten my prayers go out to you and your family at a time of sorrow but i know he is in a much better place and he is not suffering any more may god bless you all
A
Supporter
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Anyone wishing to say something to the family can still
Email the
devonsourhero@wethegibbons.org address.
Some may wish to write some words of appreciation, extensions of love,
offers of help, or just to say goodbye to Devon, (or I should say, until
we meet again.)
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Devon Gibbons