Austin E. Gumbs went home to be with the Lord on February 16, 2017, at JFK Memorial Hospital in Edison, New Jersey.

Born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey on September 16, 1931, Mr. Gumbs was a lifelong resident of the City of Perth Amboy and a pioneer in the areas of education and public service.

He will be remembered as a man who inspired all to reach beyond their perceived limitations.  He has been recognized by his colleagues as a graceful, caring and charismatic orator and leader.

Mr. Gumbs was a pillar in his community.  He made history in 1972 when he became the first and only black official elected to the City Council in Perth Amboy, NJ.  He was instrumental in the naming of the Thomas Mundy Peterson School in Perth Amboy where Mundy Petersen (the first black voter in the United States) was the custodian.  He will be remembered by residents for his remarkable portrayal of Mundy Petersen during the City's celebrations and performances. Gumbs also served as Executive Director of the popular "Concerts by the Bay" from 1996-2007  He spent many years on various municipal boards and committees to help with the advancement of the City.

Mr. Gumbs made an indelible mark in the field of education.  He was an iconic black trail-blazer who touched many lives.   Gumbs began his career in education in 1955 where he became a well-known and cherished English and performing arts teacher.  He was an admired director of a number theatrical productions of Broadway shows in the Perth Amboy Schools System and  Perth Amboy Community Theater.

Mr. Gumbs will be remembered for a number "firsts" in the educational arena:  In 1971, he was hired as  the first black principal in Highland Park High School. Then in 1980. he was appointed the first black superintendent  of schools in Highland Park  and Middlesex County.

His Tenure in Highland Park was followed by the appointment of Superintendent of Schools in Willingboro, NJ.  After his retirement from these highly visible administrative roles, he became the founder of "New Choices Educational Services" with two other retired superintendents.  This entrepreneurial venture supplied New Jersey school districts in transition with interim superintendents.  In 1999 he was elected to the Perth Amboy Board of Education and served as President through 2008.

Mr. Gumbs was a committed lifelong member and leader at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Perth Amboy.  His membership in the church choir spanned over 70 years.  In the church and surrounding communities, Gumbs was a renowned soloist and often performed for weddings and special occasions.

Throughout his life, Mr. Gumbs had memberships in various educational and cultural organizations including the Perth Amboy chapter of the N.A.A.C.P.  He was dedicated to encouraging others to support efforts for equality and leadership driven organizations.

Gumbs had a deep pride and love of the island of Anguilla.  His family immigrated to New Jersey in 1912.  His parents made roots in Perth Amboy, but always had strong ties to the beautiful island.  In his retirement, he made yearly visits to Anguilla with family and friends.

He also had a great love for gardening which included flora and vegetation.  Fortunate friends and family were often recipients of his many bounties.

He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Evelyn Hynson Gumbs in 1995.  The couple met at and graduated from Bowie State College in the early 1950s.  They were married for forty five years.

He was also predeceased by his loving parents, William N. Gumbs and Edith Richardson Gumbs.

Austin E. Gumbs is survived by his daughter, Joycelyn Gumbs Alsup and grandson, Ian J. Alsup, both of Perth Amboy.

Visitation will be on Tuesday February 21, 2017 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm and Wednesday, February 22, 2017 from 9-11 am at St. Peter's Episcopal Church 183 Rector Street, Perth Amboy.  A Service of Requiem will follow at 11 am.  In lieu of flowers contributions are requested to the Living Memorial Fund at St. Peter's.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Flynn and Son Funeral Home 424 East Avenue, Perth Amboy, NJ.