J. Leland Kibler, 84, of Newberry, died Tuesday, January 1, 2019 at his residence. Born on August 9, 1934 in Newberry, he was the son of the late Malcolm L. and Allene Schumpert Kibler. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Leland was the owner of Kibler's Inc. for 60 years. He was a member of Bachman Chapel Lutheran Church where he had previously served as a member of the Church Council. Leland's involvement in organizations was noteworthy. His activities include being a charter member of the Friendly Fire Department, a charter member of the Newberry Moose Lodge, a member and former director of the Newberry Civitan Club, and a member of the Woodmen of the World #437 where he had also served as treasurer and president. Leland Kibler was a man who found joy in meeting others. He was indeed a people person who never met a stranger and was known as "Pops" by many. In his gentle manner, he was often helping others behind the scenes, never wanting the attention. And his actions demonstrated that he dearly loved all of his family. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Betty Bodie Kibler; a daughter, Connie K. Holsonback (Mike) of Newberry; grandchildren, Brian Beck (Erin), Leanne B. Roberts (Cade), and Randall Jones (Briana); great grandchildren, Cadence, Kylar, and Decklynn Roberts, Caleb and Dylan Jones, and Karalie and Branson Beck; son-in-law, Tony Jones; and brother-in-law, Gordon Minick. He was predeceased by a daughter, Linda K. Jones and his sister, Carolyn Minick. The family will be at his residence, 3405 Dennis Dairy Road, Newberry and will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 PM on Thursday at the Whitaker Funeral Home in Newberry. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM on Friday, January 4, 2019 at Bachman Chapel Lutheran Church conducted by the Rev. Floyd Sides and the Rev. James Shealy. Interment will follow in Newberry Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers will be Keith Minick, Kevin Minick, Kyle Minick, Conrad Minick, Chansel Minick, and Chase Minick. Honorary pallbearers will be the past and present employees of Kibler's Inc. and the past and present members of the Friendly Fire Department. Memorials are suggested to Bachman Chapel Lutheran Church, 3074 Bachman Chapel Road, Prosperity, SC 29127. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at www.whitakerfuneralhome.com. Whitaker Funeral Home of Newberry is assisting the family.