Eddie Jerrel Ibbotson

Eddie Jerrel Ibbotson was born in Lonoke, AR on October 20, 1937 and passed away on August 29, 2026 in Chino Hills, CA.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 30 years Rosie Ibbotson; his children David, Danita, Jonathan, Anikka, step children Win Min, Zaw, and Pu Tu; his grandchildren DJ, Jordan, Zachary, Christopher, Chantel, Kaitlin, Hailey, Kylie, Tori, Ashlyn, Matthew, Delaney, McKenzy, Jackson, May, Cyril, Sean, Jeremy, Joshua, and Joseph; great-granddaughter Allison; and brother Gordon.

He was preceded in death by his beloved sons Jason and Timothy; granddaughter Danika; siblings Clementine, Billy, Margaret, Von, Ruth, Betty, Earcle, and Jim; parents J.F. and Lucy (Dean) Ibbotson.

After graduating Lonoke high school, Eddie and his family moved from Arkansas to California, where he eventually made Simi Valley his home and the place he would raise his family. He built a long and respected career in construction, serving as Superintendent on the project that created Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, CA. He loved to joke that he knew the exact screw that could take down the Colossus Roller Coaster. His work later took him to Knott’s Berry Farm and Universal Studios Hollywood, where he helped bring new rides to life.

Though he was talented in many ways, his heart always belonged to music. Like so many in his family, he was blessed with a beautiful singing voice. He sang solo and, in several quartets, including the Masters Quartet and the Gospel Light Quartet, and for many years served as the song director for Simi Valley Missionary Baptist Church.

In 1996, Eddie married Rosie, they lived in Victorville, CA for nearly 30 years before moving to Chino Hills to be closer to family.

He spent many a summer water skiing with the family at Lake Isabella. He loved to golf, travel, and capture memories through photographs. He cherished time with his family, adored his wife, and never missed a chance to cheer on his beloved Lakers. His sense of humor was unmatched, and his smile could light up any room.

At the age of 88, Eddie passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 29, 2026, at Chino Hills Senior Living. We imagine for him it was a Great, Great Morning, his first day in Heaven, reunited with his sons, Jason and Tim, and all the loved ones who welcomed him with open arms. Eddie will be deeply missed, but we take comfort in knowing he is singing praises with his Lord.