We are excited to share the inspiring story of Susan Feldman Gibbes BBA ’97, MBA ’97, and Walter Henry III “Chipper” Gibbes BS ’97, two distinguished alumni of Millsaps College who have built a remarkable life and career together. Their journey is a testament to the power of education, family and the lasting connections made at Millsaps.
As a business major, Susan had a vibrant college life at Millsaps. One of her proudest achievements was helping to establish the Millsaps Dance Team, an initiative met with the college’s support. Millsaps’ open-minded approach to student ideas played a key role in fostering this creative endeavor. Additionally, Susan was deeply involved in Chi Omega, and the friendships she formed within the sorority continue to be a significant part of her life today.
But it was not just the extracurricular activities that shaped Susan’s time at Millsaps. She recalls that, as a business major needing to fulfill a science requirement, her roommate, a geology major, invited her on a unique opportunity: a three-week trip to Alaska. This trip, which would earn her a science credit, turned out to be life-changing—not only did she meet her future husband, Chipper, but it also marked the beginning of their 26-year-long marriage.
Chipper Gibbes, a geology major and a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, reflects on his Millsaps education as a key factor in his professional success. After completing their studies, Chipper and Susan returned to work in their family business. Their combined efforts led them to build and run a diverse portfolio of family-owned businesses.
Susan’s family owned a household moving company and mini storage facilities, a real estate agency, commercial and residential rental property and a gift and stationery store (which became her love) – Holmes Stationers and Gifts. After 82 years, Holmes Stations and Gifts is still like an “old fashioned” department store. They showcase trendy and classic gifts for all occasions, and offer a large selection of invitations for all life’s occasions.
Chipper’s family had a timber company and later H. D. Gibbes & Sons. Today, Chipper, his son, and Susan, along with Mary Bell Gibbes (his mother) now operate the store and restaurant. Chipper and Susan’s children, (Henery and Kirk) represent the 5th generation of the Gibbes family to have been involved with H.D. Gibbes & Sons.
Visit Mississippi shares, “H.D. Gibbes & Sons, established in the late 1800s as a general merchandise store, remains a vital hub in Learned. Still family-owned and operated, the store has evolved into a unique dining destination, offering steak, seafood and live music on weekends, while preserving its traditional community-focused atmosphere. Now run by the fifth generation of the Gibbes family, it continues to attract both locals and visitors seeking a one-of-a-kind experience.” Southern Living Magazine also recently named H.D. Gibbes & Sons “One of the Most Legendary Steakhouses in the South.”
As business partners, Susan and Chipper have learned that success doesn’t come easily. They believe in the value of hard work and staying committed to their goals. Their advice to current Millsaps students is clear: “Success doesn’t just fall in your lap. You have to make things happen. Love what you do and watch your priorities. You never get a second chance to watch your children grow up.” For Susan and Chipper, it’s not just about building a successful business—it’s about maintaining a balanced life, one where family and personal priorities come first.
One of the things they are most proud of is the way their family has worked together over the years. They never anticipated that they would work alongside each other’s family members, but it has become a fulfilling part of their lives.
“We work every day alongside our family. It wasn’t our intention, but it’s how it’s worked out,” said Susan. This family involvement has extended to their children as well—most weekends, their sons help out at the restaurant, which gives Susan and Chipper immense pride. Seeing multiple generations working together has reinforced the values of hard work and togetherness in their family.
For Susan and Chipper, their experiences at Millsaps College laid the foundation for both their professional and personal lives. The collaborative and hands-on learning environment at Millsaps prepared them for the challenges of running a business. They emphasize the importance of working with others, especially when it comes to implementing new ideas and fostering trust within a team. Millsaps’ focus on group projects helped them develop these key skills, which have been vital throughout their careers.
In their own business ventures, the lessons learned at Millsaps continue to shape their approach to leadership, teamwork and innovation. Whether it was their education, the relationships they formed or the lessons in hard work and family, Millsaps played a crucial role in their success.
Susan and Chipper Gibbes’ story is a beautiful example of how Millsaps can provide not only the academic foundation for a successful career but also the personal connections and values that last a lifetime. Their hard work, commitment to family and ongoing ties to their alma mater are an inspiration to all of us.
We are proud to celebrate Susan and Chipper as shining examples of the Millsaps spirit—showing us that with dedication, collaboration and a strong sense of family, anything is possible. Their story reminds us all to embrace the opportunities around us, work diligently and always make time for what matters most.