07/08/2021
We are deeply saddened to inform all of the passing in the early hours today of Heybridge Swifts FC Life President and club legend Mick Gibson. Mick passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning with family by his side in Broomfield Hosital after a short illness.
Mick’s contribution to the growth and development of Heybridge Swifts over the past 60 years was massive, having joined and been an active member of the club’s committee for a total of 65 years, from the age of only 14, following in the footsteps of his father Bert before him. Mick’s influence and drive and the friendships he created through the club over the years, literally building the stadium, will live long in the memory. Mick also served on the Isthmian League board for over 20 years and his contribution to non league football can never be under estimated.
Mick’s name is synonymous with Heybridge Swifts FC and as chairman for the past 5 years I simply could not have had a better mentor and confidante at my side to ensure the club is protected and guided in the right way. Mick was chairman himself for many years, throughout the most successful period in the club’s history. It is now incumbent upon upon those of us now running the club to make sure we look after it and move on to higher achievements, always retaining the great family feel throughout it, encouraging local people to participate and socialise in this wonderful game of ours.
We are only too pleased that we were able to recognise in some ways Mick’s massive contribution to the club’s fortunes by staging a testimonial for him in 2016 and naming a stand after him a year later. That will remain the Mick Gibson stand for as long as the club is in existence. Mick’s health had deteriorated in recent months and it was sad that the lockdown prevented him from seeing any competitive games since last season, although he was able to attend 2 recent pre season friendlies, but clearly was not well at the time.
Mick leaves behind his wife of over 50 years, Linda and grown up children Sarah and Mark, as well as a number of grandchildren, including Max Clarke who is a big fan of the Swifts and I am sure will keep the family connection for many years to come. Mick also leaves behind his Heybridge Swifts family and the wider football family around the non league scene who knew and loved him and whose lives were enriched by being in his company.
Mick Gibson: Born April 1st 1942. Died August 7th 2021.