Gemma Morrison

Gemma Morrison "Jib" Bennett, born Gemma Mazelle Morrison, passed away in her home on May 30, 2023.

Jib was born in Manhattan to Jualice (Bennett Simmons) and Alfred Morrison but sometime later moved back to her mother’s home state of Georgia where she was raised, specifically in Hazlehurst with a short but memorable time on St. Simons Island. Over the years, Jib wore many professional hats, including secretary, train dispatcher, house mother, oil field technician, writer/editor, landlord, and patent attorney.

However, what she truly sought and successfully lived was a rich life with few regrets. She traveled the world, was an avid reader, accomplished caver, and philanthropist. Jib spent decades fighting for human and civil rights across the country, with a special penchant for women's rights. She was a ferocious collector who actively searched for treasures in others' trash piles. Jib also began rescuing animals as a young child.

Eventually, in Los Alamos, New Mexico, Jib founded For the Animals, a non-profit organization supporting those in the Los Alamos County Animal Shelter. Jib did things her own way, usually ahead of her time and certainly with a unique style.  

Jib is survived by her good friend, Kris Frain, who was “like a daughter”; her brother, Tony Simmons; her aunt, Janet Hammon; several nieces and nephews: Pedro (Wanda) Morrison, John Morrison, Carrie Morrison, Richard (Trish) Morrison, Robert Morrison, April (Shane) McBroom, Ellie (Gary) Morrison, Phillip (Brandy) Morrison, Mary (Michael) Crowe, Lex Morrison, Lamar (Beverly) Farmer; and, last but not least, her loving friends from all over the United States.

Jib was predeceased by both parents, her brothers, John Morrison and David Simmons, and her nephew, Archie Morrison.

Her Los Alamos friends will host a Celebration of Life at the Fuller Lodge on July 28, 2023 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Appetizers and beverages will be provided. Please bring a story to share, which will be truly cherished. Please RSVP to, or if you are not able to attend and have a story to share, please email it to stories.jib@gmail.com. Rivera Family Funeral Home will gladly collect and share any stories or pictures left on this webpage as well.

If you would like to send flowers, please support Jib's favorite florist, Flowers by Gillian, and please send a colorful and bright arrangements or a live plant. If you would like to donate to one of Jib’s favorite charities, please consider Felines & Friends in Santa Fe.