Jerome L. Gavin, 76, passed away on September 1 with his family at his side.  Beloved husband of Margaret (nee Haley), loving father of Colleen (Kevin) Crotty, the late Kathryn, and Bridget (Scott) Davis. Proud and cherished grandfather of Annie, Grace, and Clare Crotty and Matthew, John, and Kathryn Davis. Dear brother of Patrick (Pamela) Devaney. Devoted son of the late Margaret L. Gavin.

Jerry was a proud retired federal agent, retired captain at Leone Park Beach, lifelong member of the United States Lifesaving Association, and a piper with The Bagpipes and Drums of the Emerald Society.

Jerry touched the lives of his many friends, cousins, and coworkers. He loved lifeguarding and was a good friend and mentor, affectionately known as "Uncle Jer", to many guards during his long tenure at Leone and Loyola Beaches. Jerry had many interests. He loved traveling, scuba diving, boating, was an avid reader, and could engage in great conversation on a variety of topics. He enjoyed family gatherings and was a gifted storyteller. He was a proud graduate of Loyola Academy and John Carroll University. He enjoyed dinner and laughs with his fellow alums. Jerry was so proud of his Irish heritage, from step-dancing as a child to learning to play the bagpipes after his retirement. It gave him great joy to play and sing Irish music.

His most cherished role was as "Da" to his six grandchildren. He loved taking them on adventures to the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium and sharing his vast knowledge of all things Chicago.

Jerry is greatly loved and will be dearly missed. Visitation Sunday September 7, 2025 at Cooney Funeral Home 625 Busse Hwy. Park Ridge from 3 to 7 p.m.. Funeral Monday 9:30 a.m. prayers at Cooney Funeral Home  proceeding To St. Juliana Church for Mass at 10:00 a.m.. Interment All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 200 N. LaSalle, Suite 2300, Chicago, IL 60601.

www.cff.org/chapters/greater-illinois-chapter