PRESS RELEASE
May 3, 2014 10:42 a.m.
Senate Bill 820, which honors Francis B. Gibbs as well as Nassau County Sheriff Deputies killed in the line of duty, received support from both the House and Senate Chambers this week. The bill will designate portions of State Road AIA/200 as memorial highways in their honor. Senator Aaron Bean and State Representative Janet Adkins provided amendments to the original bill filing to honor both Mr. Gibbs and the Nassau County Sheriffs.
Francis Gibbs, a Fernandina Beach resident and graduate of Fernandina Beach High School passed away in 2013. Mr. Gibbs served as Legislative Council for Congressman Ander Crenshaw, Chief of Staff for Congressman Connie Mack, IV and served as Chief of Staff for the Florida Department of Transportation. “I am honored to have known Francis,” stated Representative Adkins, “He worked diligently in the legislature to make this world and our state a better place. Francis was a tireless advocate for matters concerning the protection of individual’s rights and liberties.”
Francis B. Gibbs passed away in 2013 after a courageous fight with colon cancer. The portion of State Road A1A between Atlantic Avenue and Simmons Road in Nassau County is set to be designated “Francis Gibbs Memorial Highway” in his honor. “It was an honor to know Francis Gibbs and it is amazing how much he accomplished and what an impact he made for Florida. How fitting it is to dedicate the portion of A1A where he grew up,” stated Senator Bean.
A section of State Road A1A between I-95 and Stratton Road in Nassau County is set to be dedicated to the memory of Nassau County Sheriffs that have lost their lives in the call of duty. “Day in and day out our law enforcement officers risk their lives for ours and some give the ultimate sacrifice. This is a small way to honor their lives and show our appreciation,” said Senator Bean.
“This portion of the highway is dedicated to the men and women of Nassau County who have paid the ultimate price,” said Representative Adkins. “I was honored to work with Sheriff Leeper’s office to have this road named in memory of the fallen law enforcement officers of Nassau County.”
Sheriff Bill Leeper stated, “The designation of portions of State Road A1A/ 200 in memory to the Nassau County Sheriff Deputies killed in the line of duty is a long overdue recognition for the law enforcement professionals who proudly serve the citizens of this community. I am grateful to Senator Bean, Representative Adkins and their staff for their leadership in getting this recognition passed this legislative session.”
Senate Bill 820 has been enrolled and will be presented to the Governor for his signature. The Florida Department of Transportation will be responsible for erecting the markers at the designated locations.
So much appreciation for your including this news item about my accomplished and remarkable son, Francis Boll Gibbs. Coincidentally, our ocean-front homestead was upon that section of A-1-A (South Fletcher Avenue), throughout the years of Francis’ youth – when he was attending the schools of Fernandina. Extremely meaningful – for many reasons!