Joseph Christopher Gavin, known as Joe by his friends and family, passed away on May 22, 2024.

Joe was born on February 22, 1951 to James Patrick Gavin and Nina Kirtley in Washington D.C. He grew up in D.C., and lived in Silver Spring and Gaithersburg before moving to Bowie. Joe served in the U.S. Army from 1968-1971 and was stationed in Okinawa Japan during that time.

He had a radiant presence and was known for his unmistakable laugh.  He absolutely loved spending time with his friends and family.

Joe worked as a custom paint and body man of cars and motorcycles. He was the owner of Gavinie's Custom Paint, and he worked for various other shops. This led him to meet so many friends and auto enthusiasts over the years.  As his personal passion, Joe was the owner of a 1951 custom Mercury and a 1936 Harley Davidson Knucklehead which he rode for 50 years. The many friendships he made along the way were sincere and lasting.

Joe was a proud veteran, patriot and possessed a strong faith in God.

Joe is survived by his brother Richard Gavin (Diane) of Severna Park, MD;  nieces Terri Allen of Springfield, VA, and Jennifer Gavin Amundson (Ryan) of Columbia, MD; his nephew Richard K. Gavin of Pasadena, MD; his grand-niece Amanda Allen Santano (Dan); his grand-nephew Collin Allen; and his great grand-nephews Wyatt Santano and Owen Amundsen, along with cousins Tony Bonavia of Pompano Beach, Florida and Michael Bonavia (Michelle) of Laytonsville, Md

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Nina Kirtley and James Patrick Gavin, as well as his sister Barbara Lee Williamson and Brother-in Law Lenny Williamson.

A celebration of life will be announced in the near future.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.