SARASOTA – Sad news from Congressman Vern Buchanan, a longtime friend and staffer passes away due to complications related to COVID-19.
“Every time, as county elected officials, you get invited to a lot of things Gary. Gary was at everything,” said Carol Whitmore.
Gary Tibbetts, a 26 year veteran of the Manchester Police Department in New Hampshire and field representative for congressman Vern Buchanan, dies a week after he was admitted to Manatee Memorial Hospital with COVID-19.
Buchanan confirmed his passing on Twitter Friday morning saying…
“He touched so many lives and was loved and respected by those who knew him. I will never forget his uplifting spirit, sense of humor and sheer joy at helping others.”
Whitmore, a Manatee County Commissioner and personal friend of the Tibbetts’ says Gary was actively involved in countless community organizations; and his loss will be felt all across the Suncoast.
“It’s been a very sad morning. Everybody I’ve talked to…has tears so it’s a big loss to Manatee County,” said Whitmore.
And several other public figures took to social media to offer their condolences. State Senator Bill Galvano tweeting “Gary was loved by so many in our community, particularly those whose lives he touched through years of work in constituent services.”
And even Buchanan’s congressional opponent Margaret Good took time to send her regards to the Tibbetts family…
“My heart goes out to his family, friends, and colleagues.”
Having served with the Manchester Police Department in New Hampshire, as a police sergeant for more than two decades; Gary was closely involved helping local law enforcement agencies.
“Gary had a wide reach, he was an incredible human being,” said Bradenton Police Chief Melanie Bevan. “He was truly just a compassionate leader in his own way.”
Bevan says she spoke to Garry three week ago over-the-phone not knowing that would be the last time she’d speak to him again.
“He was congressman law enforcement liaison and I’ll tell you throughout everything that’s been going on over the past few months my phone would ring every two weeks,” said Bevan. “[Gary] on the other end asking if there was anything we needed, if there was any type he could provide with everything going on.”
In a statement released by Buchanan’s spokesperson last week, “Neither the congressmen nor other staff has had any recent contact with Mr. Tibbetts.”