Paula Gibb

Paula Ruark Gibb passed away during the early morning hours of May 3, 2012, at the age of 61 in her home. She is the beloved wife of James Gibb; adored mother of Ernest Ballard Beath III and his wife, Kristen; precious daughter of Paul and Ellen Parks Ruark; and cherished sister of Teena Ruark Gorrow and her husband, Wayne.
Paula was first and foremost devoted to her family. With her loving nature, generous spirit, and quick wit, she dedicated her life to nurturing and supporting her loved ones. Without a doubt, Paula had a special gift of making others feel valued, appreciated, and important. Her passion for the Kingdom of Heaven was evident in her every task and she loved her Lord with all of her heart. Paula was a lifelong member of Hoopers Memorial United Methodist Church where she directed and sang in the junior choir, and she regularly attended services at Grace United Methodist Church where she taught adult Bible study in disciple principles.
An ardent supporter of education, Paula served as a teacher, reading specialist, and school administrator in Dorchester County Public Schools, as well as liaison to the Maryland State Department of Education for almost three decades. She also helped prepare teachers as an adjunct professor in the Department of Teacher Education at Salisbury University for 18 years. Her enthusiasm for teaching and her affection for animals motivated her to co-author a children’s book with her son, Ernie. A Golden’s Retreat, which featured their dog, Patriot, was to be the first in a series of books about dogs. She also published other reading materials used nationally.
Paula was recognized many times through the years for her exemplary talents as a teacher. Noteworthy accomplishments she cherished included being named the Dorchester County Teacher of the Year in 1977, and Maryland’s first Teacher of the Year in 1978. In an article published about her in Public Education in Maryland, Paula offered the following quote to the interviewer, “From the time I can remember I wanted to be a teacher.” She further shared her optimism as a positive influence in the lives of children and noted that her inspiration came from the children she served. Throughout her extensive career, her most highly valued possessions included personal notes from students. Her college students often referred to her as a professor whose impact will last a lifetime. Dr. Gibb’s earned degrees include a Ph.D. from the University of Maryland College Park, a Master of Education from Salisbury University, and a Bachelor of Science from the same institution.
Visitation and funeral services will be held at Grace United Methodist Church in Cambridge, Maryland, on Monday, May 7, 2012. Visitation begins at noon and a funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m. Interment will immediately follow at Dorchester Memorial Park located on Route 50 and Aireys Road in Cambridge, Maryland.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Paula’s memory may be made to the church of one’s choice.
Arrangements are entrusted to the Newcomb and Collins Funeral Home, P.A., Cambridge.
To send online condolences, please visit www.newcombcollins.com