John Gibbons Obituary, Death – The Providence Warwick Convention and Visitors Bureau (PWCVB) shares the news of the passing of John Gibbons, executive director of the Rhode Island Sports Commission (RISC), with a heavy heart. “John Gibbons used his immense talent, strong work ethic, and boundless passion for sports and for life to build a program that brought millions of dollars into Rhode Island,” said Kristen Adamo, president and CEO of the PWCVB. “John Gibbons built a program that utilized his tremendous talent, strong work ethic, and boundless passion for sports and for life.” “However, what is even more essential is that he was a good friend and a loving family man. At the PWCVB, a significant number of us have collaborated with him for more than ten years. He was important to us on both a professional and, more importantly, a personal level. We are utterly devastated, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.
Gibbons, at 63 years old, became a member of the PWCVB in 2006. In 2010, he was promoted to his position as Executive Director of the RISC, which is a subsidiary of the PWCVB. In that capacity, he oversaw the development of the athletic environment in the state of Rhode Island. During the time that Gibbons worked for the RISC, he went all over the country in order to represent Rhode Island and bring lucrative business to the state. Some of the events that Gibbons was successful in bringing to Rhode Island include the NCAA Men’s Basketball, Ice Hockey, Division III Wrestling, and Lacrosse Tournaments in 2024 and 2025. He was noted for developing great ties with clients, which helped solidify the state as a top destination for athletic events and meetings linked to sports, and he was an incredibly valuable member of the PWCVB team.
“The unexpected demise of John has left me in utter disbelief and with a heavy heart. “His passing has left a hole in our hearts that will never be filled, and his memory will live on in perpetuity,” said Farouk Rajab, general manager of the Providence Marriott Downtown and chairman of the PWCVB Board of Directors. “His passing has left a void that can never be filled.” We may find comfort in remembering and appreciating the times we spent together, and we may find fortitude in the positive influence he made on our lives. Dear friend, may you finally rest in peace.”
Gibbons was well-respected throughout the industry for his hard work and devotion, and in 2022, the Rhode Island Hospitality Association presented him with the Community Hospitality Ambassador of the Year Award. This award was in recognition of the work he did as an ambassador for the hospitality business in his community. However, he devoted the most of his time and energy to his loving wife Amy, their three daughters, and their six grandchildren. His family was his genuine passion. His real sense of camaraderie and humor made him a favorite among his fellow employees, who adored him. He was a friend and guide to many, and his presence in their lives will be much missed.