Gavin Fry of O'Fallon, MO, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, December 14th.
Gavin was born on October 11, 1983 to Lynn Earle and Johnny Fry. He attended Jefferson City High School and graduated from Culver-Stockton College with a degree in Sports Management. He spent his career years with the National Guard HSC, 110th MEB (Maneuver Enhancement Brigade), and Boeing, specializing in security.
Universally beloved by all who knew him, Gavin was known for his gregarious and boisterous personality. Quick to be on either end of a joke, he shone the brightest in three roles: the most genuine friend, the most loving husband, and the proudest dad.
We will remember his customary glass of chocolate milk at breakfast and lack of tactical prowess at paintball (despite his extensive military training), his love of football and “the game” with friends, and ice cream cake on holidays. We will remember him as a larger-than-life presence, someone we could and did always count on. Most importantly, we remember him as the loving husband of Emily and the doting father to Ava, 1, and baby boy, due May 2025. Though they may be young and bereft of many deserved years with their dad, we will be sure they remember him.
One of Gavin’s favorite quotes was from martial artist Bruce Lee: “Do not pray for an easy life; pray for the strength to endure a difficult one.” While his departure from this world is a mighty obstacle to conquer, the comfort of laughter-filled memories will undoubtedly help carry us through our grief.
Gavin was preceded in death by paternal grandfather Johnny Fry Sr., maternal grandmother Frances Earle, and maternal grandfather David Earle.
Gavin is survived by his paternal grandmother, Shirley "MeMe" Fry; father, Johnny Fry; mother, Lynne Earle (Andre Salmon); wife, Emily Fry; daughter, Avyanna; and son, Roman, who is on the way. He is also survived by his brother, JR (Stacey) Fry, and their children Grant, Ryan, and Jackson; his sister, Alia (Kevin) Ong, and their children, Terrence and Jasper; and his closest cousin, Jill (James) McNairy, and their daughter, Jeanette. Gavin is further survived by numerous uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to support the future educational needs of Gavin's children, Avyanna and his upcoming baby son.
Friends and family will be received from 11 a.m. to 2p.m. on Saturday, December 21, at Houser-Millard Funeral Directors in Jefferson City, with a service beginning at 2 p.m.
Additional visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Monday, December 23, at Lupton Chapel in St.Louis, followed by burial at 1 p.m. at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 W. Main St.; Jefferson City, MO 65109. (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com
