David G Gavino

David George Gavino,81, a lifelong New Jersey native with a sharp wit and a heart of gold, passed away on April 22, 2026. After a long, courageous fight against multiple terminal illnesses, David passed away peacefully and comfortably, surrounded by the family that was the center of his world.

Born and raised in Newark, NJ, David was a man of quiet intelligence and immense work ethic. He proudly served his country as a Quartermaster in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, David’s drive was unmatched; he often juggled multiple jobs to provide for his family, including years with Conrail. As an entrepreneur, he took his father’s modest janitorial business and transformed it into a thriving carpet cleaning company.

While David was known to be a bit shy, those who knew him were treated to his legendary sense of humor. He was a master of the prank and always had a joke ready to lighten the mood. His greatest devotion, however, was to his wife, Eileen Sandra Gavino, as well as his four daughters. They spent 32 happy and memorable years together in Westfield, NJ. There was nothing in this world David wouldn't do for them.

David’s life was seasoned by the outdoors and good food. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who cherished trips with his brother Nick and his nephews. On Sundays, you could find him in the kitchen making pizzas, or in his vegetable garden—a passion passed down from his father that he, in turn, shared with his daughter Jennifer. To David, a successful get-together meant "eating our way through it," whether it was a home-cooked feast or a snack tour of the Seaside boardwalk.

He was at his happiest with a deck of cards in his hand, whether playing Friday night poker with friends, gin with his good friend Stevie, or hitting the casino with his brother, Richard.

David is survived by his devoted wife, Eileen; his four daughters, Dorian Gayle Schwint, Nicole Aleece Gagnon, Danielle Beth Taylor, and Jennifer Anne Price; and his six beloved grandchildren, Lauryn, Kelly, Gavin, Logan, Charlotte, and Ruby. He also leaves behind his brother, Richard Gavino, and sister, Elizabeth Pondiscio. He was predeceased by his brother, Nicholas Gavino and his parents Nicholas and Stephanie Gavino.

The family will hold a private service. In their time of sorrow, they appreciate the love and support that has been shown from friends and family far and wide.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the VA NJ Healthcare System, General Purpose Fund, in memory of David George Gavino. Donations can be made online at https://www.pay.gov/public/form/start/46646309/

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