Donald J. “T” Tibbetts, a physical and sports teacher at Central High School, tragically passed away on Tuesday.
Don Tibbette was a graduate of Bishop Bradley High School and received his bachelor’s degree in 1974 from Norwich University.
Later, he served in the US Army and retired with an honorable discharge at the rank of Second Lieutenant.
In his early years, he worked for Easler’s Clothing Store, Manchester Parks & Rec., and NETC. He was also a proud owner of the Skateboard Center and Mr. T’s Drivers Ed School.
He built his career dedicated to the students of Manchester, serving as a Physical Education Teacher, where he was known for wearing two different-colored Chuck Taylors.
After 34 years at Central High School, Don retired in 2007. He was also a band member of the legendary bands Mystical Flowers, Wholly Righteous, and Head Shop.
He also enjoyed golfing and spending time at the lake.
Sports Teacher Donald J. “T” Tibbetts Passed Away At The Age Of 74
Central High School teacher Donald J. “T” Tibbetts, 74, of Labelle, Florida, United States, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, June 25, 2025, at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Fort Myers, Florida.
However, the cause of death has not been mentioned yet.
Central High School took to their official Facebook handle and mourned the death of Donald by stating,
Don Tibbetts was an icon. His dad was an icon, his brother was an icon. T was an icon. Loved by a bizillion people. This video was produced 9 years ago to celebrate T’s retirement… and very poignant now. Rest in YAHOO!!
Central High School
Manchester, New Hampshire, resident Lindsey Turcotte took to her Facebook handle and offered her heartfelt condolences. She wrote,
aRest in the sweetest peace Mr.T you were such a light to all of us ❤️ Mr. T was both my mom and I’s gym teacher when we attended that school. Ill never forget him calling me Little Linda bc I looked so much like her at that age. It was amazing to me as a freshman that he remembered her and he never forgot his students even years after graduating ❤️ what a profound loss to the teaching community & Manchester. Have fun jamming out in heaven Mr T! We love you! 😇❤️😞
Lindsey Turcotte
Donald’s student, Jazmin Maynard, also offered her heartfelt condolences by stating,
No words to say… he was an amazing human. He made my high school gym class actually enjoyable with his witty dad jokes and his smart mouth. His light shined bright here on earth anda I’m sure it’s shining even brighter in Heaven. Rest Easy Mr. T
Jazmin Maynard
Crystal Champagne, who serves as the head start teacher aide, also remembered the time she spent with sports teacher Donald. She wrote,
You weren’t just my gym teacher… you were my whole family… my first day of gym class you saw my last name and knew exactly who my dad and uncles were and always called me by my last name and laughed every time you did it… that was 22 years ago and I remember it to this day… never going to forget you rest in yahoo!!!!
Crystal Champagne
Other close ones and relatives have also poured their heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Donald’s family to stay strong in this heartbreaking moment.
Donald will always be remembered for his contributions as an army and sports coach at Central High School.
His family will follow T’s wishes and host a Celebration of Life at a date, time, and location to be decided soon.
Instead of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Manchester Central High Booster Club at [email protected].
Lambert Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements.
Donald J. “T” Tibbetts Is Survived By His Wife And Three Daughters
After dating for several years, Donald J. “T” Tibbetts tied the knot with Sandra L. “Sam” Vincent Tibbetts of Labella, Florida, in 1969.
Although Sandra avoided the media spotlight, she always supported Donald in balancing his professional and personal life.
Sadly, their married life ended after 56 years following the tragic death of Donald.
Donald and Sandra were blessed with three daughters: Kimberly Tyson, Kelly Tibbetts-Cote, and Katie Tibbetts.
Kimberly tied the knot with Geoffrey Tyson of Sandwich, while Kelly married Gary Cote of Manchester.
In addition, Donald is survived by his five grandchildren: Berklee and Colbi Vaillancourt, Xavier Soul, Logan Cloutier, and Griffin Cote.
Currently, they are mourning the tragic death of their supportive and devoted father, Donald.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Donald is also survived by his sisters, Amy Wilkinson and husband Steve, and Cindy McNally and husband Brian. He also had one brother named Gary Tibbetts.
- He was born on November 11, 1951, to his father, Donald E., and his mother, Jane (Savage) Tibbetts.
