P
ROVIDENCE, R.I. –The Providence Warwick Convention and Visitors Bureau (PWCVB) announced the passing of executive director of the Rhode Island Sports Commission, John Gibbons.
Gibbons joined the PWCVB in 2006 and in 2010 he assumed the role as Executive Director of the RISC. He was 63-years-old.
The PWCVB said Gibbons traveled the country representing Rhode Island and bringing business to the state, including the NCAA Men’s Basketball, Ice Hockey, Division Three Wrestling, and Lacrosse tournaments.
“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. “But more importantly, he was a devoted family man and a wonderful friend. Many of us at the PWCVB have worked with him for more than a decade. He meant a lot to us professionally and even more personally. We are heartbroken and extend our deepest sympathies to his family.”
The PWCVB said Gibbons was well-respected throughout the industry for his hard work and dedication, and in 2022 received the Community Hospitality Ambassador of the Year Award by the Rhode Island Hospitality Association. The organization remembers him as “an extremely valued member of the PWCVB team,” who worked hard to establish the state as a destination for sporting events and sports-related meetings.
“I am deeply saddened and shocked by the untimely passing of John. His departure leaves a void that can never be filled, and his memory will forever remain in our hearts,” said Farouk Rajab, chairman of the PWCVB Board of Directors. “May we find solace in cherishing the moments we shared and draw strength from the impact he had on our lives. Rest in peace, dear friend.”
