Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
James Gavaghan Obituary
97, passed away on September 9, 2016. Jim was born April 8, 1919 to James and Nora Gavaghan of County Mayo and Kerry respectively. The oldest of seven children, Jim attended Holy Cross Catholic School and Cathedral High School graduating in 1937.
He was a member of the Army 753rd Railroad Battalion serving throughout Africa and Italy from 1942-45. Jim joined the Indianapolis Fire Department in 1946 retiring as Captain in 1978. He was proud to be the oldest retiree.
Jim married Betty Griffin on November 6, 1948 and raised five children. They were married for 60 years. He was devoted to his Catholic faith and a member of Little Flower Parish for 63 years. He coached their football team for many years winning the City Championship in 1963. He was Catholic Fireman of the Year as well as recipient of the John Bosco Award in 1966.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents Jim and Nora, his wife Betty, two sons Jimmy and Billy, his brothers Frank and Bob, sisters Mary Battista, Eileen Meiners, and Kate Gawrys.
He is survived by his sister Anna Rita Nolan, his children Dennis (Monica), Pattiann (Steve Johnson), and Bobby (Susie), 7 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews and their families.
Dad loved life. His favorite memories were camping across the country with his young family and his many travels with Betty. He loved being with people. He never met a stranger and made many friends with his beautiful Irish smile which was constantly on his face.
The family would like to thank St. Paul's Hermitage and their devoted staff who cared for and loved our father like he was one of their own.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Paul's Hermitage, Scecina High School or Little Flower Catholic Church.
"Until we meet again may God hold him in the palm of His hand."
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 14, 2016 at Little Flower Catholic Church. Visitation will be from 3- 8 p.m. on Tuesday, September 13, 2016 at Oakley-Hammond Funeral Home, Moore & Kirk Irvington Chapel, 5342 E. Washington Street, where prayers will be said at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday prior to Mass. Interment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Gavaghan
each man here carried the title of oldest retired fireman...Frank Marren, Charles Hill, Bud Galbo, and Jim Gavaghan
pat hill long
January 15, 2017
pat hill long
January 15, 2017
pat hill long
January 15, 2017
Pat Hill Long
January 15, 2017
I just learned of Jim's passing. As a friend of my dad, Charlie Hill, Jim was a delight to visit with at the retirees' events. He was always so proud of his Cathedral history, too.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Mike Beaupre
September 13, 2016
His Smile Says it all. Condolences to the family as I know he will be missed by all. We could not have asked to live on Dequincy Street with such a Great Man and his family.
Kathy Rowe(Thorpe)
September 13, 2016
Dennis, Paqttiann, and Bobby,
May you experience God's peace and comfort as you grieve the loss of your dad. I have many special childhood memories of your dad as he took the DeQuincey Delinquents to see Glenn Campbell, The King Family, Hermits Hermits, etc and to Riverside Amusement Park. May you cherish the memories of your Dad and rejoice that he is in his new home with our heavenly Father.
With Love,
Kathy Rowe(Thorpe)
Ceil (Kelly) Parker
September 12, 2016
Dennis,
You and your family are in my prayers. When I read of your Dad's passing my thoughts turned to the days on DeQuincy "Emerson Heights". Good memories were made! I'm sure your memories
of your Dad will help you in the days to come, as well as knowing, he is now "in the palm of His hand".
Ceil
September 12, 2016
One of my father's best friends. His golf buddy. My deepest condolences to Mr. Gavaghan's family. Melinda (Gordon Merrell's daughter).
Kevin Barry Division #3 Ancient Order of Hibernians
September 12, 2016
Our most sincere condolences to the family. Jim was a great man and Hibernian and will be dearly missed. May perpetual light shine upon him.
Mike Reese
September 11, 2016
My deepest condolences to the Gavaghan family, Jim was one of my favorites always with a smile and willing to talk ND Football. Many fond memories of Jim coaching football with my dad and Hank. May he rest in peace as he is reunited with Betty, Jimmy and Bill in the loving arms of the Lord.
September 11, 2016
My deepest sympathy to the Gavaghan family for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Karen Berntsen Sullivan
Sharon Threlkeld
September 11, 2016
I never had the honor to meet you, Mr. Gavaghan, but I knew you well through your daughter Pattiann. Thank you for your service to our country and our city. You have left a wonderful legacy with your children. Rest in peace now with your beloved Betty and sons.
carolyn moorehead
September 11, 2016
My condolences, Mr. Gavaghan was one of lifes perks for sure,and beloved by many. Never saw thst little irish face without that great smile of his.
September 10, 2016
Our condolences to all the family. We will miss Jim's smiles and warm handshakes. He was one of my husband's first officers on the I.F.D. We have fond memories of Jim. God rest his soul! He & Betty are together again! Floyd (Brownie) & Donna Brown
katie fahey
September 9, 2016
Mr Gav was like the mayor of the east side, and will be missed every time an Irish song is played or people are gathered for fun and laughter, for he would have been smack in the middle of it.
Showing 1 - 16 of 16 results
Make a Donation
in James Gavaghan's name
Memorial Events
for James Gavaghan
Sep
13
Visitation
3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Oakley-Hammond Funeral Home5342 East Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46219
Sep
14
Prayer Service
9:30 a.m.
IN
Sep
14
Mass of Christian Burial
10:00 a.m.
Little Flower Catholic Church
IN
Funeral services provided by:
Oakley-Hammond Funeral Home5342 East Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46219
How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor James Gavaghan's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
