Dorothy 'Dottie' Jean Gavin

Dorothy "Dottie" Jean Gavin, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully passed away on Friday, May 8th, 2026, at the age of 78. Born in Centralia, Pennsylvania, on January 9th, 1948, Dorothy spent the majority of her vibrant life in Pasadena, where she became an integral part of the community.

Dottie was a proud alumna of Severna Park High School. A dedicated homemaker, she found great joy in nurturing her family and delighting friends with her culinary talents. Dottie's love for writing poetry and crocheting was only surpassed by her passion for cooking and hosting family gatherings, where her sharp wit and warmth brought smiles to everyone present. She was a member of Magothy United Methodist Church, where she was head of the bereavement committee, a ladies' Bible study, and sang in the choir.

Dorothy is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Dennis Gavin, her children, Deanna Casey and her husband Jeffrey, Rochelle Parsley, Dennis Gavin and his wife Brandi, and Kurt Gavin and his wife Pamela. She also leaves behind her adoring siblings, Elsie McDonald, Tommy Clews, and Marcia Atkinson. Her legacy continues through her treasured grandchildren, Ashley, Gabby, Joshua, Zachery, Nicholas, Evan, Cassidy, Aubrey, Chloe, and Emily, and her great-grandchildren, Piper, Riley, Conor, Jackson, Zoey, and Quinn.

She was predeceased by her parents, William Joseph and Dorothy Ann Clews, and her siblings Ronald Clews, Robert Clews, Carolyn Willey, and Billy Clews.

Family, friends, and those whose lives Dorothy touched are invited to a visitation at Stallings Funeral Home, Pasadena, Maryland, on Sunday, May 17th, 2026. Afternoon visitation will be held from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, with an evening visitation from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A funeral service to celebrate her life will take place at 12:00 pm on Monday, May 18th, 2026, at the same location.

Immediately following the service, Dorothy will be laid to rest at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Crownsville, MD, from 1:45 pm to 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Dorothy's memory to Hospice of the Chesapeake or the Susan G. Komen, to support ongoing efforts in breast cancer research and support for those in need.

Dorothy Gavin will be remembered not only for her love and dedication to her family but for her boundless generosity, infectious laughter, and the deep connections she fostered with all who knew her.