With hearts shattered and love that knows no end, we announce the brief yet deeply meaningful life of our precious daughter, Ziva Kate Gibbs. Born at 5:45 a.m. on April 21, 2025, at Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis, Ziva came into this world as a beam of pure light, weighing 6 lbs., 12 oz and gracing us with a head full of dark, curly hair. Though her time with us was heartbreakingly short, the love she inspired will live in our hearts forever.
Ziva was the cherished second child of Drew and Emily Gibbs, who had eagerly anticipated her arrival with hope, joy, and dreams of holding her close and watching her grow. In her brief time earthside, Ziva was lovingly held, kissed, and cradled by her family. Her tiny hands were touched by those who loved her most, and her presence, though silent, filled the room with indescribable warmth, wonder, and awe.
Ziva’s name, meaning “radiance” and “life,” perfectly embodied the spirit she brought with her. A sweet soul who came and went on the same day, her journey may have been fleeting, but her impact was eternal. In those sacred hours, Ziva became part of a love story written on the hearts of her parents, her big brother Jude, and all those waiting to welcome her into the world.
She is survived by her parents, Drew and Emily Gibbs; her big brother Jude, who was already so proud to be her protector; grandparents Mark and Elaine Gibbs, and Terry and Linda Morgan; aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family who were ready to shower her with affection. Though they didn’t get to know her long, their hearts are forever changed by her.
As we grieve the loss of our sweet Ziva Kate, we also give thanks for the gift of her life. We are grateful to the compassionate team at Riley Children’s Hospital for the tenderness and care they gave our daughter and our family during the most difficult hours we have ever known.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ziva’s memory to the Riley Children’s Foundation, to support other families navigating high-risk births and neonatal care, or to Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, an organization that provides remembrance photography to families experiencing infant loss.
A private service will be held for immediate family. We hold Ziva close in our hearts and entrust her spirit to a place where there is no pain, only peace. Though we do not get to raise her here, she will always be ours.
“You were carried for only a moment but are loved for a lifetime.”
Rest peacefully, Baby Ziva Kate.
You were perfect. You were loved. You will always be missed.
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