John Joseph Gavin Jr.

Old Lyme- John J. Gavin Jr., 65, died unexpectedly while training during much loved Jiu Jitsu
practice on Monday, March 18, 2024.
John was born on August 20, 1958 in Norwalk, CT. He was the son of John and Celeste Gavin. He lived a
life of service to his community working as a paramedic for Lawrence and Memorial Hospital for many
years. He saved countless lives over his career and loved the profession and the professionals with
whom he worked.
He married the love of his life, Nadine McLeary in 2014. Those who knew him knew nothing made him
happier than his wife Nadine and his children. John lived in Old Lyme for all of his adult life. He was an
avid musician, playing the guitar and singing. He was a beloved member of a group of folk musicians
who play at the Nightingale Cafe in Ivoryton. He was devoted to Jiu Jitsu training and enjoyed the
friendship of that community. In his younger years he competed in triathlons. John also designed and
crafted beautiful guitars in his backyard workshop. He was a man of many gifts, the most outstanding of
which was his kindness and compassion for all.
John leaves to grieve, his loving wife Nadine, daughters Rachel and Cece, sons Daniel and John, stepson
Tajhay, mother Celeste, brother Tim (Wendy) and sister Kerry (Brian). He also leaves nieces and
nephews, Katherine, Trevor, Drake, and Audrey; as well as mother-in-law Clarice and brothers- and
sisters-in-law. He was predeceased by his father, John and we would like to think they are together now,
looking over and caring for all of us.
A Celebration of John's Life will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, March 23, 2024 in the Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School Auditorium, 53 Lyme St., Old Lyme, CT.