General | September 16, 2025

AIKEN, S.C. - USCA Athletics regrets to share the passing of legendary former head coach and Hall of Fame member Johanna Gibbs, who passed away Thursday, Sept. 11.

She pioneered the women's athletic programs at USCA. 

A successful coach at Aiken High School, Gibbs was hired by the University in 1976 to start the volleyball and women's basketball programs. 

In her five seasons at the helm of the basketball program, Gibbs posted a 92-45 record, and her .672 winning percentage still stands as the best in school history. In her final season, she guided USCA to the 1981 NAIA District 6 Championship and a berth in the NAIA National Tournament. 

After giving rise to the volleyball program in 1978, Gibbs compiled an 81-29 career mark in three seasons, again holding the record for best winning percentage (.736). She won the NAIA District 6 Tournament title in 1980.

Burial will be private with the funeral service to follow Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 11:00 am at St. John's Methodist Church. Following the service, the family will receive friends at a reception in the church fellowship hall. 

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to USCA in support of the Johanna Gibbs Basketball Scholarship Endowment (1C1685). Checks can be made payable to the: Aiken Partnership and mailed directly to USC Aiken, Attn: Advancement Services, 471 University Parkway, Aiken, SC 29801. Please place the scholarship name or number in the memo line and a note stating that this is in memory of Johanna Gibbs. If you would like to give via phone, please call Renita Dicks at (803) 641-3334 or memorial contributions may be directed to SC Coaches Association of Women's Sports (SCCAWS), P.O. Box 261, Newberry, SC 29108.
 
Obituary