HIBBS, Joel Meredith

Lake Powell Chronicle, Page, Arizona Thursday, Jun 30th, 2011 Joel Meredith Hibbs On Saturday, June 25, after 57 years of being a loving husband, caring father and devoted follower of Christ, Pastor Joel Meredith Hibbs went home to the arms of his all-mighty Lord and Savior. His three month struggle with terminal cancer concluded with his peaceful passing Saturday morning while surrounded by his family. Born Feb. 9, 1954 in Key West, Fla. and raised in Tucson, Joel received his bachelors degree from the University of Arizona at the age of 24 went into ministry. After receiving his masters degree from Western Seminary, he was the beloved pastor of churches in Portland, Ore.; Burns, Ore.; White Salmon, Wash.; and Page. He eventually retired after 31 faithful years serving God. His family and friends take comfort in knowing his faith and the promise of Christ’s gift of eternal life. Joel is survived by his loving wife, Janell; three children, Jesse, Jodi and Jason; and his four brothers, Howie, Jeff, Tim and Matt. There will be a memorial service held on Wednesday, July 29 at 3 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Page. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers or gifts, donations be made to the bicycle ministry Saddle Lights run by his son and daughter-in-law. Donations can be made at www.saddle-lights.com or mailed to Saddle Lights at 2751 N. Walnut Hills Drive #62 Flagstaff, AZ 86004. “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.” Psalm 115:1