TRIBUTES are pouring in for a husband and wife who were killed in Basingstoke on Father’s Day.
The bodies of Geoffrey Hibbert, 61, and Michelle Caroline Hibbert, 29, of Buckland Avenue in Basingstoke were found by officers in their home just before 2am on Sunday, June 20.
Stanley Elliot, 52, of Kiln Road in Sherborne St John, was charged with their murder and is due to appear before Basingstoke Magistrates' Court today (June 23).
Devastated loved ones have since shared memories and messages of loss.
Fathers4Justic founder, Matt O’Connor, recalled “loving” Geoff’s famous M25 protest and said his thoughts are with his children.
"We are shocked to hear of the brutal murder of Fathers4Justice campaigner Geoff Hibbert and his wife on Father’s Day. In 2008 Geoff famously scaled a gantry on the M25 dressed in his Batman outfit, unfurling a banner with pictures of the daughter he was denied access to.”
"Geoff was a loving dad, husband and campaigner, who showed tremendous courage and humour when raising awareness about the issue of fathers’ rights. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, his young son who has been orphaned, and his other children who have lost their father."
Yvonne Ormston said her thoughts are with their loved ones.
“Rest in peace to a loving couple you will be sadly missed. Geoff and Michelle were loving parents to their little boy who will sadly miss you. Geoff and Michelle were lovely people to know they would help people out. Geoff would give people advice on things. I hope their son finds a loving family like his family. Geoff and Michelle you will be sadly missed by everyone r.i.p both of you xxx”
Rooney Mackenzie, who used to spend time with Geoff at his farm, said: “Geoff was a good man and he knew how to have a laugh. R.I.P Geoff and Michelle, from me and my family.”
Mandy Collins described the couple as “loving wonderful and caring” parents who will be missed.
She wrote: “Sorry to hear about Geoff and Michelle Hibbert. Geoff would go out of his way to help anybody, I have known Geoff for over 25 years, he was a wonderful friend, loving husband and father. Michelle was a wonderful caring mother, loving wife R.I.P you will both be sadly missed.”
Claire Cope added: "We are deeply sadden by this Geoffrey was a good friend to us for many years sadly we didn't get the chance to meet Michelle. My thoughts go out to their son and family RIP.
Councillor Sam Jeans described the incident as “just so sad” and said her thoughts went with those affected.
“It is a dreadful, dreadful incident and really sad day for Basingstoke,” the public representative for Kings Furlong and Brookvale said.
“Our thoughts very much go to the victim and their families at this incredibly sad time.”
Cllr Tony Jones said his thoughts are with the loved ones of the deceased. He said: “It is very sad, very sad indeed. I offer my condolences to the family and their friends, these things shouldn’t happen.”
Rosanne McLean, who knew Michelle as a young girl said: “My deepest sympathies go out to Michelle and Geoffrey family's. Michelle grew up a few doors away and went to school with my son. Shocking news, so young and so sad. May they rest in peace.”
Member of the community also paid their respects to the couple.
Sharon Thomas said: “Such a tragedy. Prayers are with your family.”
Abigail McCormick added: “My condolences to their family and friends, may they rest in peace.”
Wendy Perry wrote: "We didn’t know you both but our hearts go out to your families and your little boy. Maybe you both rest in peace. God bless."
Paula Barry said: “Rest in peace together hopefully there will be justice for your little boy and your families xxxx.”
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