David M. Gori

Obituary for David M. Gori (1968 - 2024)
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of David M. Gori, 56, who left us on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at his home in South Westerlo, New York. Born in Kingston, New York, in 1968, David was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose presence brought joy and laughter to everyone fortunate enough to know him.
David is survived by his devoted wife, Virginia (Ginger) Gori, who was his partner in every sense of the word, and his cherished stepchildren, Andrew Fishlinger and Emily (Marc) Smith. He took immense pride in being a grandfather to Emma and Jack Smith, with whom he shared countless hours of fun and laughter. David also leaves behind his father, Phil Gori, his sisters Gina (Kim) Kiniry, Patricia (Ernie) Guerrieo, and Diane Gori Cole, alongside many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda (Moscatiello) Gori, and his grandmother, Ambrosina Gori.
Dave lived in Saugerties, New York and attended Saugerties High School, where he enjoyed his school years immensely and has continued many friendships from those years.
Dave then attended and graduated from Suny New Paltz with a BA degree in Education, concentrating in English. He thoroughly enjoyed his time at college and was a founding member of the Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity at SUNY New Paltz. Dave has continued many friendships with his college friends and fraternity brothers. He later completed his Master's Degree in Special Education.
David enjoyed a fulfilling career as a Special Education teacher in the Cairo-Durham School District for over 24 years, where he met the love of his life and future wife Virginia, where he touched the lives of many students and colleagues. His passion for teaching and mentoring was evident in every interaction he had, and he will be deeply missed by those he inspired. He worked as a county CPS worker, a corporate trainer, and a job coach for ARC in Kingston. But his true passion was teaching and working with the many students he guided throughout the years. He will be greatly missed by students and coworkers alike.
A proud tennis coach, David led both the boys' and girls' varsity teams, achieving remarkable milestones, including the girls' team becoming Section Two Class C/D Champions in 2016, for which he was honored as the Patroon Conference Girls' Tennis "Coach of the Year."
He took immense joy in spending quality times in Salem Massachusetts and Vermont with Ginger, though he often preferred the comforts of home, where he delighted in cooking and spending time with his beloved pets, Rudy and Puddy.
David was larger than life, known for his quick wit and infectious humor, even dabbling in stand-up comedy, he was a funny guy! He was an avid Raiders fan and a trivia aficionado, always ready to share his vast knowledge on music, sports, and more. His spirit will continue to live on through the warmth and laughter he shared, particularly with his grandchildren, who were the light of his life.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during calling hours at A. J. Cunningham Funeral Home 4898 Sr 81, Greenville, NY, on Sunday, December 8th, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
A funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary of the Snow Catholic Church 36 Cedar St, Saugerties, NY 12477 on Monday, December 9th, at 10:30 a.m., with burial to follow at the St. Mary of the Snow Cemetery.
As we celebrate David's life, we remember his love, laughter, and the indelible mark he has left on our hearts. He will be profoundly missed, but his legacy of kindness and joy will continue to resonate in our lives.
Condolences may be made at www.ajcunninghamfh.com.