Gavin Winsett Obituary
If you ever had the privilege of knowing Gavin Mitchell Winsett, you know that he lived with a heart as big as his hugs-both of which were legendary. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, on February 26, 1998, Gavin was a bright light in every room, a champion of joy, and an expert in laughter. He left us far too soon on February 7, 2025, but not before leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of kindness, humor, and unwavering love.
Gavin was the beloved son of Andreah Dawn Churchill and Terry Wayne Winsett, Jr., and he carried the best of both in his spirit. He was also blessed with a "stepfather with glasses", Brian Ellis Churchill, who preceded him in death but surely greeted him with open arms, and a stepmother, Christina Winsett, who loves him dearly. His chosen family was vast, including his beloved partner, Guadalupe Gonzalez, his Bonus Mom, Cynthia Gonzalez, and his brothers and sisters, Gabriel, Tristan, and Chloe Winsett. Gavin also found a lifelong brother in Francisco Arco, Jr., because family, to Gavin, was never defined by blood alone.
His grandparents, Wanda Medlin, David and Karen Chrisman, Kathy and Terry Crawford, Terry and Christine Winsett, and Linda Magee, his uncles, Richard Billings, Mike and Jason Magee,his aunts, Cheri LaDelle, Pamela Parsons Devore, Marie and Michelle Magee and Sarah McCaslin, his cousins, Mira and Elaina Billings, and Hunter Magee all adored him.
Gavin was a man of many passions-a connoisseur of video games, anime, and all things Asian culture.
He believed in the magic of immersive stories, whether exploring the wizarding world of Harry Potter, embarking on an adventure through Middle-earth, or wielding the Force in Star Wars. Walt Disney World was his happy place, where he felt the most alive, and if given the choice, Gavin would probably live on a cruise ship, enjoying endless buffets and breathtaking sunsets.
A dedicated and beloved employee in the paint department at Home Depot, Gavin was more than just an associate-he was a trusted friend, a go-to expert, and a beacon of kindness to his coworkers and the contractors who relied on him. His work ethic was matched only by his generosity, always willing to lend a hand, share a laugh, or brighten someone's day.
But above all else, Gavin was pure love in human form. He never raised his voice in anger-only in laughter. He gave the best hugs on the planet, the kind that wrapped you up like a warm, safe haven. He found joy in making others happy, whether through a joke, a shared adventure, or simply being present in the moment. His mission in life, whether he knew it or not, was to make the world a little lighter, a little brighter, and a lot more fun.
To honor Gavin's love for joy and service, we have established a fundraiser with Give Kids the World Village, a nonprofit in Central Florida that provides cost-free vacations to children facing critical illnesses. This cause resonates deeply with who Gavin was-a man who found magic in laughter and meaning in bringing happiness to others. Donations can be made through his fundraising page: https://give.gktw.org/fundraiser/6088452.
We deeply appreciate all forms of acknowledgment during this time, whether through your presence, messages, or contributions to the fundraiser. Your support means the world to us as we celebrate the beautiful, joyful life of Gavin Mitchell Winsett-a man who proved that kindness, laughter, and love are the most powerful forces in the universe.
A visitation for Gavin will be held Friday, February 14, 2025 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38119. A funeral service will occur Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Memphis Funeral Home.
Published by The Daily Memphian on Feb. 12, 2025.