January 27, 2025, James Michael Hibbard, 73, of Ceredo, West Virginia, peacefully passed away at the Emogene Dolen Jones Hospice House in the arms of his wife, Debby and daughter, Lisa Hibbard-Fraley. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Debby Hibbard; a daughter Lisa (Phil) Fraley; granddaughters Morgan (Alex) Middleton; Ryen and Reese Fraley; a grandson, Ethan Fraley; three great grandsons Elijah, River, and Shiloh Middleton; a brother whom he shared a close bond, Charles Hibbard; and three sisters, Jennifer, Teresa, and Sherry. Michael was preceded in death by his daughter, Tina Renae Hibbard and his parents Leroy and Dorothy Hibbard.
Michael Hibbard had many roles: son, brother, former sales manager, avid golfer. But his proudest were those of husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He loved his family fiercely and his entire life was devoted to them. Besides his family, Michael had many loves: fishing, tinkering in his garage, watching the Bengals, listening to music, and working in the yard which he was very proud of. In his retirement years, he enjoyed volunteering his time with his special ladies at Kenova United Methodist Church with the sharing and caring ministry. Although his illness prevented him from helping as much as he liked during the past year, he still made a point to deliver his special treats of chocolate covered cherries to his special ladies at Christmas. Michael was loved by many, and he will be truly missed.
For those that wish to pay their respects, visitation will be at Kenova United Methodist Church February 1st from 1-3 and a memorial service to follow. Services will also be live streamed on Kenova United Methodist Church Facebook page. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to Hospice of Huntington, WV (PO Box 464 Huntington, WV 25709) or Recovery Point West Virginia (1040 Adams Avenue, Huntington WV 25704).
Oh Debbie I’m so sorry. He was a wonderful man n loved life and his family so much. A joy to know him n be around. Peyers for all of you.
Debbie, I am so sorry to hear about Mike. I have a lot of memories of you both when the kids were young and we all became good friends. Thinking of you and your family.
Debbie, I am so sorry to hear about Mike. We all go back to when our kids were little and we all became good friends. Brian, Chris and myself send our love and prayers to you and your family.
I am so sorry to hear about Mike. My heart goes out to all of you. Prayers for peace and comfort to you and all who loved him.
I always thought he was a good person.
I am so sorry ! Michael was so wonderful and kind. He was so funny and always smiling! I know he is planning beautiful gardens in Heaven! Love you guys guys!
I will miss him. I loved joking with him and Debby. I hope he gets his candy up in heaven . I love you both..
What a sweet obit and a life well-lived and well-loved! Prayers for your precious family. I know you already miss him. Please know that I care. [a Saunders cousin]
Debby, So sorry to hear about Mike. We know he has suffered
tremendously for several years. I know he was glad to have his family beside him to care for him. I did not know mike personally but feel like I did because of his relationship with you and with the KUMC. God be with you and your family at this time and in the coming days.
Debbie I’m am so sorry for your loss. Bill loved Mike and use to talk about him often. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. My prayer for you is Gods grace to help you in the coming days.