By Yvonne Tatar
Sadly, on June 26, 2024, Gerry Higbie, head of the Summergrass Kids Camp in San Diego, California for many years, passed away.
Gerry, his wife, Sheila, and their son, Will, have been stalwart supporters of Summergrass, making sure Kids Camp participants were able to experience the joy of learning and performing bluegrass music each year at the festival. Gerry was filled with the spirit of sharing bluegrass music with the next generation, and he shared it with so many children over the years—many whom are now adults. His dream came to fruition each year as Summergrass Kids campers came in droves to attend the camp.
Gerry and Sheila were also instrumental in teaching the highly successful kids camp at the Parkfield, California festival each May. In the early years of Parkfield, Gerry often ran the sound board. He was also a banjo player and mentored his son, Will, on the banjo from an early age. He loved Summergrass and looked forward to championing Kids Camp each year. Gerry was also a Vietnam War veteran and an Olympic speed skater in his younger da
Gerry’s passion for bluegrass music education for all ages was reflected in his 21 years of dedication to Summergrass.
The family has requested that donations be made to the IBMA Foundation in lieu of flowers, to honor Gerry’s passion for bluegrass education for young people.
Donations may be made at this link or mailed to IBMA Foundation, 1183 University Drive #105-215, Burlington, NC 27215.
More than $1,000 has been donated to the IBMA Foundation in memory of Gerry Higbie during the past month.
RETURN to the August 1, 2024 issue of The Cornerstone.
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