The Florida Chapter of American Academy of Pediatrics (FCAAP) is sad to share news of the passing of Dr. Gerold L. Schiebler, Professor Emeritus and Distinguished Service Professor of the University of Florida Department of Pediatrics, on March 2, 2024.  Dr. Schiebler was the chairman at the UF Department of Pediatrics for 27 years and considered the father of the department. His impact was magnified by the pediatricians and specialists he helped train, including many who have served and are serving among the leadership of FCAAP.

Dr. Schiebler graduated from Harvard Medical School in 1954 and joined the UF Department of Pediatrics faculty in 1960, becoming the first pediatric cardiologist in North Florida. In 1968, Dr. Schiebler was named Chairman of the UF Department of Pediatrics. He became the Associate Vice President for Health Affairs for External Relations in 1985.

Dr. Schiebler and his wife Audrey Lincourt Schiebler were an admirable team who worked together on behalf of Florida’s children. Their advocacy efforts, spanning more than 50 years, can be seen through the establishment of many invaluable Florida programs including Guardian ad Litem, Children’s Medical Services, Poison Control Centers, Child Protection Teams, and the Boggy Creek Camp for Children with special health care needs.

Dr. Schiebler received many awards for his work, including the American Academy of Pediatrics Donald Schiff Award, the most prestigious award for Child Advocacy from the AAP. The Florida Pediatric Foundation, the charitable arm of FCAAP, established the Audrey Lincourt Schiebler, RN, FAAP, and Gerold Schiebler, MD, FAAP, Advocacy Award in 2013 to honor the lifetime achievements of Dr. and Mrs. Schiebler. This award of commendation is given annually to a physician who has followed in their advocacy footsteps by working beyond the profession, educating local and state legislators, and diligently advocating to improve the health and welfare of Florida’s children.

Information on any public memorial services to honor his life and legacy will be shared when available. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Gerold L. Schiebler, MD, and Audrey Lincourt Schiebler Children’s Advocacy Fellowship in Pediatrics.

FCAAP is compiling memories of Dr. Schiebler to share with the Schiebler family. Please click here to contribute.