John Gabbard

November 15, 1965 - December 28, 2021

Former Fayetteville resident, John C.E. Gabbard, age 56, died December 28, 2021, in San Diego, California. He was born Monday, November 15, 1965, at Barstow, California, to Benjamin D. and Carolyn Janovic Gabbard. John was a free spirit, enjoying fresh and saltwater fishing, NASCAR racing, football, and hockey. He loved being Santa Claus at Christmas time. A helping hand when someone needed one, he was loved by family and friends as a mischief maker and protector. He was preceded in death by his father, Benjamin D. Gabbard. Sr. of Fayetteville, and grandparents, E.C. Gabbard and Imogene Gabbard both of Prairie Grove. Survivors include his mother, Carolyn Gabbard of Fayetteville; one brother, Benjamin D. Gabbard, Jr. of Winslow; and two sisters, Della Midgett and Helen Gabbard, both of Fayetteville. His 8 nieces and nephews and 11 grand-nieces and grand-nephews affectionately nicknamed him "Uncle Cookie" because he would always spoil them with cookies and run. The family will receive friends at 9:00 AM, Saturday, January 29, 2022, at Brashears Funeral Home. A memorial service celebrating John's life will begin at 10:00 with James Gabbard officiating. Interment will immediately follow services at Farmer Cemetery, Hindsville. Services are entrusted to Brashears Funeral Home and Crematory of Huntsville.