John H. Gavin

"A life without nature, is no life."

John H. Gavin, a longtime resident of Newburyport, died February 19, 2019 surrounded by his friends and family. He was born October 7, 1947 in Beverly, Massachusetts to Edward P. and Irene M. Gavin. John grew up and lived in Manchester-by-the-Sea until his enlistment in the United States Air Force. After his military service (including a year in Vietnam), he worked in hospital service management until his retirement. He and his wife, Patricia, owned a home in Newburyport, where they lived with their beloved feline companions. John cared about all animals and could often be seen caring for injured creatures, as well as feeding any birds, squirrels or any other animal that ventured into their backyard.

John was also passionate about wildlife photography. He spent countless hours photographing at and around Plum Island and out West in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks with his daughter and son-in-law. He also visited Kenya several times and fell in love with the country, its people, and the wildlife.

John is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Hall, her husband Travis, and their children, Brayden and Teagen; brothers Edward P. Gavin Jr., Michael G. Gavin (Michelle), Peter G. Gavin (Holly) and sister Nancy I. Gavin. He is preceded in death by his wife, Patricia M. Gavin, his parents, and his brother David.

Services and burial will be private and are under the direction of Twomey, LeBlanc & Conte Funeral Home, 193 High Street, Newburyport 01950.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in John’s memory to the Feline Rescue Society at 63 Elm Street, Salisbury, MA 01952.

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