Zachary T. Gibbs

We are heartbroken to announce the sudden death of Zachary Taylor Gibbs, Lieutenant (Retired), Anne Arundel County Fire Department, on September 12, 2025. Zach leaves behind two amazing teenage boys — Evan Gibbs, 17, and Sam Gibbs, 14 (Centerville, MD) — his father Tom Gibbs (Fairfax, VA), his sister Anna Martin (Auburn, WY), his niece Sophie Martin (20), his nephew August Martin (19), and countless other brothers and sisters in the first responder family. Zach was a lifelong fire service professional and volunteer firefighter paramedic (33 years), a dedicated father, and incredible friend. His boys, his family, and his friends were the absolute center of his universe, and anybody in his orbit felt his love and light. Zach's 33-year career as a first responder was marked by unwavering dedication — he proudly served with the Anne Arundel County Fire Department from 2001 to his retirement in 2025. His path of service began as a volunteer at the age of 15 at Dunkirk VFD in Calvert County (1992), followed by Ritchie VFD in Capital Heights (1997), and Calvert Advanced Life Support (1998). His education included Montgomery County Community College (Fire Science), Anne Arundel Community College (Paramedic), and a Bachelor of Science degree in Management from Johns Hopkins University. Born into a Navy family in Key West, Florida, Zach's childhood was filled with adventure as his family moved across the country and lived overseas—from Key West to Oak Harbor, Washington; Camarillo, California; Oslo, Norway; Owings, Maryland; and Centreville, Maryland. He graduated from Northern High School in Calvert County, where he forged lifelong friendships and began his remarkable journey as first responder. Zach’s family (maternal) has a long history in Maryland, particularly in Annapolis. Two of his great grandfathers were Maryland governors — pre- and post-revolution — and there are not many historic places in Annapolis that are not directly tied to Zach’s family. Zach was particularly proud of his family’s military service to our country — both his father, grandfathers, cousin, and other extended family members having served. His family (paternal) also includes a long history of historic adventure in the United States, making him a least a 10th generation American. Zach spent his whole life being a blessing and support to others, and we look forward to honoring him with the same love and joy he gave so freely. Memorial service and celebration Sunday, September 21, 2025 Please feel welcome to come to just the memorial service or celebration. We welcome seeing you at either or both! Memorial Service: Time: 9:00 am — 12:00 pm (Respects) 10:30 am (Service) Location: Orchard Beach VFD 7549 Solley Rd, Glen Burnie, MD 21060 Dress: In honor of Zach, we kindly request that all service members attend in "dress blues" to create a Sea of Blue for his service. For non-service members (civilians) please dress respectfully but avoid wearing black. Celebration of Life: Time: 12:30pm — 4:30 pm Location: Red Eye’s Dock Bar 428 Kent Narrow Way N Grasonville, MD 21638 Dress: We invite everyone to change into their "Jimmy Buffett" best - Hawaiian shorts, bright colors, flip=flops and beachy vibes are welcome. Please feel welcome to join either or both the service or celebration Out of town guests: Please contact us for airport transport and accommodation assistance Primary contact: Anna Martin (443) 622-9161 (text please) If anyone has pictures or stories to share for his memorial, please send to the above as well. In-lieu of flowers please consider a memorial contribution and/or support of the Anne Arundel Firefighters Emerald Society. https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/fund-to-honor-zach-gibbs

Zachary T. Gibbs

August 9, 1977 - September 12, 2025