The Excelsior Standard, June 6, 2025

Sabrina Gibbs

Sabrina Dawn Gibbs (née Hoagland), 61, of Hillsboro passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 27, at home. Born Nov. 11, 1963, in Larned, Kan., she was the beloved daughter of Don and Linda Hoagland (née Shaffer). In 1968, Sabrina’s family moved to Excelsior Springs, where she grew up and graduated in 1982 from Excelsior Springs High School. She went on to earn a degree in 1986 from Central Missouri State University at Warrensburg. During her college years, Sabrina was an active and dedicated member of the Sigma Kappa sorority, where she served as vice president of her chapter. In that role, she helped foster a supportive, respectful and uplifting community for her fellow sisters, always leading with kindness, fairness and a strong sense of integrity.

In 1987, Sabrina moved to St. Louis, where she built a vibrant and fulfilling life full of purpose, love and service.

She met the love of her life, Jeff, in 1992, and the two were married in 1996. Together, they created a home filled with warmth, laughter and shared adventures.

Sabrina was a devoted and loving mother to their son, Kyle, whom she adored with all her heart.

She is survived by her husband, Jeff Gibbs; son, Kyle Gibbs; parents, Don and Linda Hoagland; and brother, Kevin (Nicole) Hoagland.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Eric Hoagland. Sabrina dedicated much of her professional life to working as a computer programmer and analyst, contributing her intelligence and work ethic to companies like Laclede Gas and The May Department Stores Co. However, her true impact was felt far beyond the workplace.

Sabrina had a deep appreciation for the arts, music, dancing and travel — and an even deeper love for people. She was known for her joyful energy and ability to bring others together, whether through shared laughter, heartfelt conversation or community service. She generously gave her time and talents, volunteering with the St. Simon Boy Scouts, serving in the Lindbergh High School Mother’s Club and leading as chairwoman for the Lindbergh class of 2016 Project Graduation.

Sabrina’s connection to the organizationArtsAs Healing was deeply personal and became one of the most meaningful parts of her life. Following her first breast cancer diagnosis in 2014, she discovered the therapeutic power of art. Sabrina immersed herself in the creative process and found a sense of peace and expression that carried her through treatment.

After beating breast cancer twice — first in 2014 and again in 2017 — she became a passionate advocate and volunteer for the organization. Sabrina spent many hours supporting other patients through their journeys, offering compassion, encouragement, and as always, a warm smile. She proudly served on the board of directors for Arts As Healing, helping the organization offer cancer patients and caregivers the opportunity to heal through creative expression. Even after her colon cancer diagnosis in 2025, Sabrina continued to champion the group’s mission until her final days.

Sabrina had an unmatched gift for planning and organization. From elaborately themed birthday parties for Kyle to Cub Scout events, family vacations, international travel and countless trivia night fundraisers, she was the engine behind it all. She thrived on bringing people together and ensuring every detail was thoughtful and meaningful. Her leadership in coordinating Lindbergh High School’s class of 2016 Project Graduation was just one example of her ability to turn vision into reality with grace,creativity and flair.

Sabrina also had a playful and curious spirit, which shined through in her love for puzzles and games. She and her son Kyle shared a special bond through their mutual love of escape rooms and strategy board games.

And when it came to trivia nights, it became a full family affair. With Jeff by her side and often joined by close friends, the group made a lively and competitive team.

Full of laughter, clever comebacks and inside jokes, the gatherings were more than just games; they were joyful celebrations of connection, fun and community. Sabrina cherished those moments, and they remain some of the most treasured memories for everyone lucky enough to share them with her.

Sabrina found peace and joy in the natural beauty of Lake Wauwanoka, where she and her family resided in Hillsboro. Whether she was out on a boat ride, kayaking across the water or simply taking a swim on a warm afternoon, she cherished every moment by the lake. It was her own slice of “Happy Land” — a place of calm, connection and reflection. The lake wasn’t just where she lived; it was where she felt most herself and made lasting memories with family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Arts As Healing (https://artsashealing. org), the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org) or a charity of your choice in honor of Sabrina Gibbs.

While no immediate visitation or formal service will be held, a celebration of Sabrina’s life — filled with the joy, color and love she brought into the world — will take place in the near future.