James Newell McKibben

James Newell McKibben passed away at home on Thanksgiving Day, November 28th, 2024, due to complications from dementia. Jim was born in Lincoln, Nebraska on March 11,1940, to Wilmer N. and Charlotte McLean McKibben. He graduated from Culver Military Academy and the University of Colorado before beginning his lifelong professional career in insurance sales and earning the CLU designation. In addition to his work as an estate planner and a broker of life insurance and employee benefits, he was a founding partner of Lillis, McKibben, Bongiovanni and Company. Jim’s business life can be described by all as one of dedication, commitment and scrupulous integrity.

Jim fully embraced the Erie Community. He was involved in a variety of charitable organizations. He was a Past President and Board Member of the Erie Arts Council; a board member, tireless advocate and former General Chairman of the Greater Erie Charity Golf Classic; and a Past Chairman and a long-term board member of the Sarah Reed Children's Center. The recipient of the Sarah Reed Legacy Award in 2023, Jim was described as “a leader who is gentle, strong, courageous in convictions, generous and compassionate.” This describes Jim to a “Tee”. Pun intended.

And speaking of golf…Jim’s passion and love of golf was apparent to all who knew him, along with his quick wit and ability to tell an incredible joke. There was no happier place for Jim than on the golf course with good friends, a cigar and a caddy who appreciated Jim’s mentoring.

He was a Club Champion at both Lakeview Country Club and The Kahkwa Club as well as the 1997 EDGA J.C. Martin Senior Champion. He was an active member at The Kahkwa Country Club for 43 years and was known for his skill, graceful game and enviable handicap. The friendships he developed through golf made Jim's life special and rewarding despite never getting the elusive “hole in one.”

Jim is survived by his wife of 55 years, Linda Mong McKibben; his daughter Melissa (Missy) Perkins (Tom); his beloved grandchildren Katie, Matthew and Jack; his son James (Jamie) McKibben III and fiancée Emily Dauber; his sister Dr. W. Jeanne McKibben and family; and his favorite sister-in-law Susan (Dr. Raymond Ford) and their family. 

Jim will be remembered as a wonderful and loving husband, father and grandfather; a great friend and mentor to many; and above all else, a true gentleman in every sense of the word.

The family would like to recognize AseraCare for their extraordinary hospice expertise and most sincerely thank Jim’s team of private caregivers for their 24 hours a day compassionate love and support.

A celebration of life will take place in the late spring as per Jim’s wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sarah Reed Children's Center of Erie, PA or the charity of one’s choice. 

Arrangements by Burton Quinn Scott Cremation & Funeral Service Inc. Downtown, 602 W. 10th Street, Erie. 

Send condolences to www.BurtonQuinnScott.com