W Jenkins 'Gibby' Gibson
1898-1961

1938-1955 Assistant District Commissioner (Rover Scouts)
1946-1955 Assistant County Commissioner (Rover Scouts)
1956-1961 District Commissioner (Sheffield)
1948-1961 Editor of 'Scout News'
1939-1945 Editor of 'SLABS'
Justice of the Peace

"The death of the District Commissioner, Mr W Jenkins Gibson, on 29th September 1961, deprived Sheffield Scouts of an outstanding leader who was unsparing in his work for Scouting with which he first became associated in 1937. Coming in as a layman to help with the production of the first Gang Show "Shorts" ever produced in Sheffield, Mr Gibson soon became a uniformed member, first as a Rover Scout in the 191st Sheffield Rover Crew and soon afterwards as Assistant District Commissioner for Rover Scouts, an appointment he accepted in 1938.

His work for the Rover Scouts, particularly during the war years, was quite outstanding and all who served in the Forces remember with gratitude how he produced a monthly magazine which was printed and sent to every Sheffield Rover in every theatre of War. Only those who served in distant parts know how much this regular reminder of home meant to them.

Mr Gibson undertook additional duties in 1946 as Assistant County Commissioner for Rover Scouts, but his most responsible appointment came in 1957 when he became District Commissioner for Sheffield, a position he filled with energy and distinction until his untimely death at the age of 63.

In addition to fulfilling the duties demanded by his warranted appointments, Mr. Gibson undertook many additional duties, and his exceptional ability in organizing and staging big events caused the Local Association to call on him to take charge on all such occasions.

Another aspect of his service to Scouting and one not so well known to many, was his work on the Finance and General Purposes Committee of the Association where his wide business experience and expert financial knowledge were always available. There were few aspects of Scouting in the City which did not benefit from Mr Gibson's dynamic presence and he was ever ready to give advice and help whatever the circumstances.

Although he had heavy business responsibilities and other interests to which he was devoted, his service to Scouting was exceptional and will long remain in the memory of all who were privileged to work with him.

The funeral service held on 4th October 1961 at the Sheffield Cathedral was conducted by Canon E H P Rawlins and the large attendance of representatives of industry, of Scouting and many other branches of City life, was an indication of the high esteem in which Mr Gibson was held. Scouts lined the Cathedral yard and the coffin was draped with the Scout Flag on which were Mr Gibson's Scout Hat surmounted by the Silver Acorn awarded to him by the Chief Scout in 1953".

From the 51st Annual Report of SLABS for the year ending 31st March 1962