Search by Name

Search by Name

John Gavin

1931 - 2018

BORN

1931

DIED

2018

John Gavin Obituary

LOS ANGELES (AP) - John Gavin, the tall, strikingly handsome actor who appeared in "Spartacus," ''Psycho" and other hit films of the 1960s before forsaking acting to become President Ronald Reagan's ambassador to Mexico, died Friday at age 86.

Gavin, who was also a former president of the Screen Actors Guild, died Friday, said Brad Burton Moss, manager of Gavin's wife, actress Constance Towers. Moss did not provide the cause of death.

Click to get weekly celebrity death news delivered to your inbox.

After appearances in a handful of 1950s B-movies, Gavin's breakthrough came in 1958 when he landed the lead role of a World War II German soldier in "A Time to Love and a Time to Die."

The film was based on an Erich Maria Remarque novel, and Universal Studios, having won an Academy Award in 1930 with its adaptation of Remarque's "All Quiet on the Western Front," was hoping lightning would strike again.

With a postwar audience hungering for escapism, however, it didn't happen and neither the film nor its leading man fared well with critics.

The New York Herald Tribune found Gavin "a very personable young actor, remarkably unpretentious and quite lacking in mannerisms," while gossip columnist Hedda Hopper wrote, "He is handsome and has a silken sort of threat which gives women chills up and down the spine." Others dismissed Gavin, with The New York Times calling him "a good-looking, awkward young man" with a dull delivery.

Universal didn't lose faith, however, starring him opposite Lana Turner in a remake of the soap opera "Imitation of Life" the following year. Then came the role of Janet Leigh's divorced lover, Sam Loomis, in the 1960 Alfred Hitchcock classic "Psycho."

Gavin's performance, though, was overshadowed by those of Leigh as the tentative, frightened thief who steals $40,000 to keep their romance together and by Anthony Perkins as the psychotic owner of the Bates Motel where she seeks shelter on her way to meet her lover.

Gavin went on to make a flurry of films over the next two years, playing Julius Caesar in "Spartacus," appearing opposite Susan Hayward in "Back Street," opposite Sandra Dee in Peter Ustinov's Shakespearian spoof "Romanoff and Juliet" and again with Dee in "Tammy Tell Me True."

His career began to wane by the end of the 1960s and a minor role in the 1967 musical "Thoroughly Modern Millie," starring Julie Andrews, marked the end of his association with Universal.

He made a few other films and appeared on such TV shows as "Fantasy Island," ''The Love Boat" and "Hart to Hart," but he was already on the road to another profession, diplomacy.

Unlike some who win ambassadorships as political favors and are sent to countries they know little about, Gavin arrived in Mexico in 1981 well equipped for the job. His father had invested in the country's mines, and ancestors of his Mexican-born mother were among California's first Spanish settlers. Gavin had often visited Mexico in his youth and was fluent in Spanish and Portuguese.

While in the Navy in the early 1950s, he served in Panama as Pan-American affairs officer to the Navy commandant, and during a lull in his acting career he was appointed special adviser to the secretary-general of the Organization of American States. His assignment was to promote President John F. Kennedy's Alliance for Progress to help Latin American countries improve their economies.

He had also become friends with Reagan when both were actors at Universal, and their friendship continued when Gavin became president of the Screen Actors Guild in 1961, a position Reagan previously held.

When Reagan appointed Gavin ambassador, he cited the political turbulence in Latin America and quipped, "If you're not attacked at least once a month, I'll feel you're not doing your job."

Indeed, the Mexicans were initially dubious about having a former movie star as their U.S. ambassador, but he soon won the country over. The 6-foot-4-inch (1.9 meters) leading man and his statuesque blonde wife, Constance Towers, an actress and singer in Broadway musicals and Hollywood films, made a stunning couple and were admired by Mexicans. He remained in the job until 1986.

Gavin was born John Golenor into a well-to-do Los Angeles family on April 8, 1931.

After attending Stanford University and serving in the Navy, the future actor was unsure what his career path to take until a family friend, producer Bryan Foy, suggested he try acting.

Although he had studied drama at Stanford and made a few appearances on TV and in the theater, he played that down during his screen test with Universal.

"Probably if I told the studio I had come out of the Stanford drama school, done a little theater and TV, I wouldn't have had a chance," Gavin told The Associated Press in 1958. "But they seemed intrigued by my lack of credentials."

Soon the studio had given him a new name and seasoned him in such movies as "Raw Edge," ''Behind the Wall" and "Four Girls in Town."

While at Stanford, Gavin met a lovely coed named Cicely Evans. After an eight-year courtship they married in 1957 and had two daughters, Cristina and Maria. After their divorce, he married Towers, who also had two children, Michael and Maureen, from a previous marriage.

After his ambassadorship ended, Gavin opened an office in Los Angeles and invested in various enterprises in Mexico and served on the boards of corporations and charities.

A conservative Republican, he was approached in 1991 by officials in President George H.W. Bush's administration about running for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by retiring Democrat Alan Cranston.

He declined, citing business and family matters.

We invite you to share condolences for John Gavin in our Guest Book.

___

Written by ANTHONY McCARTNEY, AP Entertainment Writer

The late AP Entertainment Writer Bob Thomas contributed to this report.


Copyright © 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Published by The Gazette on Feb. 10, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for John Gavin

Not sure what to say?





99 Entries

carol carey

June 29, 2025

loved him he was so handsome

Jean Mooney

May 15, 2025

To John Gavin'and family, I have always loved this handsome gentleman. watching him in the movies for years. I have seen all his movies he did with his gentle elegant manner's. How striking he was and so Handsome. There was something special about him that was intriging. I was crushed hearing about his passing he left a mark in the Film industry how wonderful a man actor he was. My Heartfelt Condolences to a great man l'm in tears l will never forget him. Jean Mooney

Charlotte

January 13, 2025

John Gavin was a marvelous actor and did many many films. Very handsome and extremely dignified and intelligent. Appointed Ambassador to Mexico by President Reagan Loved his films. An overall impressive gentleman!!!

Darryl Doleman

November 16, 2024

Mr. Gavin you are one of the greats on the big screen. As a young lad I wanted to be grow up be like you. Wow I kinda did too.

Paula Cornelison

December 2, 2023

When my son graduated from St. John´s Military Academy, in 1984, John Gavin was requested by Pres.Reagan to be the speaker at the event. His speech to the young cadets was inspiring and he began his address in Spanish! This was a welcome surprise to the several young boys who were from Mexico! Since Mr. Gavin was Pres. Reagan´s current U.S. Embassador to Mexico, he was
warmly welcomed by the parents of the academy graduates! My son´s photo was taken as Ambassador Gavin presented him with his medal of excellence in courses of history/english! Although a past movie "heartthrob", he was a most impressive to many as our ambassador of American patriotism & democracy!

Valeria Jenkins

September 2, 2023

I loved John Gavin. Back Street Affair was a wonderful movie. I know he is gone now but he was a wonderful actor and leading man.

janet troutman

March 30, 2023

HAS BEEN A FAVORITE OF MINE FOR A LONG TIME- I ENJOYED HIS ACTING AND THOUGHT HE WAS(IS) SOOOOO HANDSOME-HE LOOKED YOUNGER THAN ME--BUT MY BIRTH YEAR IS 1944--HIS1931 WOW! SO SORRY HE IS GONE NOW- I COULD ENJOY HIS MOVIES A LONG TIME AFTER HE DIED!

Larry Allen Wright

December 6, 2020

Just recently watched his performances in the top movies he was in and was so impressed as he seamed so comfortable and relaxed in each. He truly was the most handsome man ever.

Janet Duvall

May 11, 2019

John is one of my all-time favorite actors-my mom and I shared a love of the old movies. May be rest in peace.

Sally Fennell

January 5, 2019

Reinita. I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of your brother, John. I've been trying,unsuccessfully, to reach you for some time. Together at Gorman High
in Las Vegas, was great and a thrill for
Charlie and I to meet John at your home
and giggle like fools. If you're able
please call me at 310-739-0249. I live in
Oregon and would love to reconnect.
Love, Sally Fennell

Dee Adams

September 17, 2018

I love John Gavin as a Big Fan. When he called me that time, I told him how much I loved "Back Street' He said it was kind of soapy. I told him I like Soaps, MY Grand Son told him about my Husband's passing, and he sent his condolences to me. How sweet it was to me. I think he is the most Handsome Man ever, and a Gentleman. I send my Love to his Wife, Connie and all his family. He told me that Connie keeps him in line. I had to laugh at that that one. What Great Man. I have posted twice before. I have so many movies of him. Love everyone of them.

Nell

September 3, 2018

John Gavin was a good looking man and I enjoyed his movies. Mr. Gavin delivery was very good to this female. "STOP HATING" Everyone brings a little something and I hope we leave that something behind for having lived. It would be very sad when we don't say something, gave something, did something like a smile, tear, thank you, kiss, hand, gift, money, say what a great job you did, sing a song even if you really not a great singer and do it with heart.

Kate

August 25, 2018

I have been a fan of John Gavin for many years. Two of my favorite movies of his are "Back Street" and "Imitation of Life." Such a handsome man. My prayers go out to his family. I am so thankful for DVD's. I will always be able to see him.

Joan Rampersad

July 17, 2018

Although 'Back Street' wasn't my favourite John Gavin movie, it's the one I remember most. I went to see it with my two sisters and cried our eyes out, that is one sister and me. The other one said we were embarrassing her because we cried from the theater to the car. I don't know why we embarrassed her when there were grown men standing in lobby with their handkerchiefs wiping there faces. I guess it was our loud sobbing.

I wish he had made more movies but the ones he did make were choice.

Debbie

June 21, 2018

Just read of John's passing. My sincerest sympathies, he was a good man. I enjoyed the TV movie Cutter's Trail was one of my favorite shows. May God comfort you at this time.

Susan DeVere Covington

May 24, 2018

So sorry to read just now of John Gavin's passing. I went to see Back Street with my two elder sisters at the drive-in in Sydney, Australia, and never forgot this movie. I just ordered the movie and watched it this morning and afterwards went in to see where he was in his life and was dismayed to read that he had passed. I had often read about him over the years. My condolences to his family. He was always one of my favorite actors. What a great man and what a great life. Thank you for such wonderful memories

May 17, 2018

I am very sorry for your loss.

Lynn Jones

May 5, 2018

My Prayers and Condolences to the Family of John Gavin.
I have always loved (growing up in Newark, New Jersey) watching "classic" movies (and still do). One of my favorite movies is "Back Street." I adored John Gavin! He will never be forgotten.

May 5, 2018

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

May 3, 2018

My deepest sympathies for your loss please know that God is aware of your pain and wants to bringyou comfort phillipeans 4:6,7.

Reginald Craig

April 30, 2018

One of my favorite movies is "Imitation of Life" and he helped to make it the great film that it is! Sadly the only two players in from that film that are still alive are Karin Dicker and Susan Kohner!
Lana Turner, Juanita Moore, Terry Burnham, Sandra Dee and now John Gavin are all gone!
So very sad!!

Delores Adams

April 29, 2018

John Gavin was my favorite Actor, and so Handsome. He was so kind to call me a few Months ago. He didn't know me, but my Grand Son called him to tell him how much I could tell he was a wonderful gentlemen, and so handsome and kind

Dee Adams

April 29, 2018

G M

April 23, 2018

Dear Family and Friends;

John Gavin was a consonant gentleman and
shall be remembered always.

As the days and weeks pass may cherished memories bring comfort and the God of peace be with you. Philippians 4:6,7.

Sincere Condolences,

ron thompson

April 19, 2018

Just got word of his passing and was so sadden to hear. He was a hero of mine as a young boy watching him in Destry. I always thought he was one of the most handsome actors on the screen and remember his B of A commercials. My prayers to his family and wish to thank him for living up to the hero I always imagined him to be....truly one of a kind!

Jeffrey Bryan

April 2, 2018

John Gavin was a wonderful actor and a very kind human being. This handsome man will always be remembered.

March 15, 2018

I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family for their loss. May you find comfort and help in God during this time of mourning.

C S

March 5, 2018

I'm so sorry for your loss, MR.Gavin was a wonderful actor, May you have comfort in knowing that many people enjoyed him on the screen and off. Please take comfort in knowing that God promises a ressurection of the righteous and unrighteous.

February 27, 2018

Mr. Gavin was one of the most wonderful persons I ever have th privilege to know and work with
God must have a beautiful place for him in heaven

February 19, 2018

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

February 17, 2018

TO THE FAMILY OF JOHN GAVIN;


MY HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY FOR YOUR LOSS. MR. GAVIN WAS A HUSBAND, FATHER AND NO DOUBT A GOOD FRIEND TO ALL WHO KNEW HIM PERSONALLY AND PROFESSIONALLY. IT SEEMS SO UNFAIR THAT DEATH SHOULD HAVE THE POWER TO TAKE AWAY SOMEONE YOU LOVE. AND WHEN IT HAPPENS, THE THOUGHT OF NEVER AGAIN BEING ABLE TO TALK TO, LAUGH WITH OR SIMPLY HOLD THEIR HAND CAN BE MOST DIFFICULT TO BEAR.

MAY YOU ALWAYS KEEP TREASURED MEMORIES OF MR. GAVIN IN YOUR HEART. AND MAY YOU ALSO FIND COMFORT IN KNOWING THAT THOSE WHO HAVE PASSED ON IN DEATH GOD KEEPS IN HIS MEMORY BECAUSE THEY ARE ALL PRECIOUS IN HIS EYES.

RESPECTFULLY YOURS,

E. ILLINOIS

Valenda Newell

February 17, 2018

PRAYERS

Don Ford

February 15, 2018

On Behalf of Connie Towers Gavin's Classmates at Lincoln High School (Seattle), Class of 1949, I would like to extend our deepest condolences on the passing of her beloved husband and soulmate, John Gavin

Johnsons

February 14, 2018

A great talent lost. Our deepest condolences to the family. May the God of all comfort bless you with strength and peace during this difficult time.

Terrie O'Regan

February 13, 2018

Dear Connie and family,
I am so saddened to hear of U J's passing.
The both of you will always hold a special place in my heart.
Much Love,
Terrie EPSTEIN O'Regan ( Doña Teresa)

February 13, 2018

Sending you love and my deepest sympathies Connie.

Crystal Craft

Dede

February 13, 2018

Good night, Sweet Prince, and thank you.
Your role in "Back Street" was always my
favorite. Love forever.

PETER CULLEN

February 13, 2018

My condolences to the family of John Gavin a fine actor and gentleman! God Bless and R.I.P.

February 13, 2018

Connie,Christina,Maria,Michael,Maureen


I so sadden to hear of Jack's passing. Your in my thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Lucy Kelly, The Villages, FL

L Apablasa

February 12, 2018

Condolences to John Gavin's wife and daughter's. I did not have the opportunity to meet him. But he is part of my ancestry and thus I have always been intrigued by his life. He was born an Apablasa and was uncle to my father. I still carry the name Apablasa as it holds much history to the early days of California.
So sorry to lose another Apablasa.

Ylaria Franco

February 12, 2018

I was your GREATEST FAN at the age of 17...i loved you then n i still do now 67.ill pray for your soul n your family. Ill see you in HEAVEN

Harry Simpson

February 12, 2018

Godspeed John, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.

Fair winds and following seas sailor.

Thank you for your service to this nation.

andrea hadt

February 12, 2018

My deepest sympathy to the Gavin Family on John's passing. As a young girl, I envied stars like Lana Turner and Susan Hayward as his leading ladies...what a man! He was by far one of my favorites with more talent than so many of these so called "stars" of today. R.I.P. John

February 12, 2018

DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS.LOSING A LOVE ONE IN DEATH IS NEVER EASY. ONE DAY MANY WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO LIVE AGAIN. MAY THE HOPE OF EVERLASTING LIFE SUSTAIN AND COMFORT YOU DURING THIS SAD AND DIFFICULT TIME. JOHN 17:3

February 12, 2018

A PRECIOUS YOUNG MAN. LOVED TO SEE HIM ACT.. NORTH CAROLINA

A Fan

February 12, 2018

My condolences to the family on the loss of John Gavin, he will be missed I remember him from his movies.

February 12, 2018

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Carolyn Murray

February 12, 2018

To The Gavin Family,
I am sending my heartfelt condolences to your family at this very somber time of bereavement. I will forever cherish the memories of Mr. Gavin, I will never forget his contributions to the film industry also his faithful service as an ambassador to Mexico. Such an handsome, distinguished gentleman. His appearance in "The Imitation of Life" with Lana Turner; I love that film & loved his role in it. May his lovely wife (Ms. Constance Towers) be comforted throughout this time of loss; I loved her also in "General Hospital". May our Almighty Father surround the family & may the healing process of losing such an magnificent person from your lives be a soft, easing time. The Lord has Mr. Gavin in such a special place, his memories will forever live on within our hearts, minds, spirits & especially our souls....RIP Mr. Gavin

Brad Branch

February 12, 2018

I just rewatched "Psycho" for the umteenth time on Saturday, unaware that Mr. Gavin passed. He was great as Sam Loomis. "Psycho" is the film I will remember him for. Rest in peace, John Gavin.

February 12, 2018

My condolences to the Gavin Family and friends for the loss of your dear husband, father, other relative and friend ~ John. May you continue to be blessed and your hearts be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times you shared together; and may the hope that God's word gives us for those we lost in death be comforting, faith building and encouraging to you (John 6:40) ~ Linda, Queens, NY

Sally

February 12, 2018

We send our sympathy to family, friends and fans of Mr Gavin. May the Almighty God of comfort be with them all at this difficult time. May all draw close to God because he love you.

Teresa

February 12, 2018

What a career, very soft spoken and towering with good looks and personality. Politic, I can see that too especially doing the time he got involved in it, actors and politics. To the family of Mr. John Gavin, with deep sorrow, you have my condolences. May the hope of peace, peace that will be extended to the earth under a Heavenly rulership, comfort you. This will be the Kingdom that we all have prayed for. Matt6:9,10

L. R.

February 12, 2018

I was so saddened to read of the loss of Mr. Gavin. I enjoyed seeing him in some of his movies. Can only imagine how painful your loss must be but please know that our loving heavenly Father is aware and reassures us that he will comfort us in difficult times such as these. 1 Peter 5:6,7

JMS

February 12, 2018

To the family of John Gavin; please accept my condolences. Losing a loved is a painful experience. May the God of comfort and tender mercies soothe your heart during this most difficult time.

February 11, 2018

I had the pleasure of working with John while at Mexicana Airlines as he was kind enough to do voiceovers for some of our broadcast material. His friendship with Peter Dailey and Ronald Reagan led to their visiting our offices often.

A fine person and talented individual. So very sorry for the loss to family, friends and fans.

Barbara Sutton-Warren

February 11, 2018

RIP u were a such a good actor I felt ur performances especially n Imitation of Life. May ur wife n family be comforted during this time. Your family loss is our loss, thank u for all u have done on screen n off thank for ur service.❤

February 11, 2018

So sorry for your loss. May our heavenly father comfort you at this most difficult time.

Liz Saxon

February 11, 2018

RIP John Gavin. Will always remember you as the dashingly handsome Paul Saxon opposite the beautiful Susan Hayward in the tawdry "Back Street".
" ....All small letters....very chic".

February 11, 2018

Dear Mr. Gavin's Family and Friends, Please accept my deepest sympathies on John's passing. I think the world of both he and his wife Constance Towers.
May God comfort all of you and may John rest in peace.

Ramon Garcia

February 11, 2018

I would like to express my deepest condolences to Mr John Gavin`s family, friends and fans. In a man strikingly attractive outside always shone an even more striking beauty inside. That is in part what makes his playing in Imitation of Life and other movies so unique, so unforgetable. He always stuck to the Mexican and Spanish origins of his mother and family, rooted in the very origins of California, and in this sense I can t think of a more elegant and fascinating Californian. I was working on Carlos Fuentes novels when he was detached in Mexico. Good, intelligent, fascinating man indeed. Dios le tenga en su gloria y le bendiga. I pray for his family and wish them strength. We are many to mourn by their side.

Edward & Lois Sutton

February 11, 2018

Dear Constance and Family,

We were saddened to learn of the passing of your beloved John. What an amazing life he lead, not only in the world of entertainment but in service to our country. Take comfort in all the good times & memories shared over the years of his wonderful life.

Marilyn

February 11, 2018

My heartfelt condolences to the family of Mr. John Gavin. May God and the loving memories that you shared with him help ease the pain that you must be feeling. Know that prayers are being said in your behalf.

Linda Styles

February 11, 2018

John Gavin - RIP...What an interesting life he had. As a teenager I had such a crush on him. He had a suave & debonair presence about him which I loved. Thank you for your diplomatic service too! Prayers go out to his family.

Imitation of Life, 1959.

J. J.

February 11, 2018

Love him in "Imitation of Life " as Lana Turners boyfriend. So handsome, will miss him.
J.J. Ms.

February 11, 2018

Sad to hear. I remember him from Imitation of Life, and especially enjoyed him onstage in The Fantasticks. He found meaningful work after acting.

Kathleen Joyce

February 11, 2018

He fit the description "tall, dark and handsome" to a tee. First time I saw him in a movie, I looked for a man like that. I married a dark handsome man, not so tall though. I was so sorry to hear of his passing. Condolences to his lovely wife and children. Kathleen Joyce

Cathy

February 11, 2018

I am saddened by his passing. Condolences to the family. God Bless

Ann Marie Murray

February 11, 2018

A life well-lived, an awesome legacy left behind. John was most certainly a beautiful man - both inside and out. God rest his wonderful soul. My deep condolences to all the family. Sincerely, an ardent fan - Ann Marie Murray

Pat

February 11, 2018

I was saddened to read of Mr. Gavin's death. As a young person, I remember him in "Imitation of Life" and other movies and shows. He was a dream to every teenage girl. I am sorry for your loss. May God comfort and strengthen you, as you endure this loss.

February 11, 2018

Thank you for your service to our country.
A grateful American

Judy Urwin

February 11, 2018

This man was always one of my favorite actors and what a beautiful man he was. Loved,loved,loved him in "Backstreet." He would have made a perfect James Bond,so suave and sophisticated AND handsome as hell.
With deepest sympathy to his family and fans,

Maggie Kelly Crane

February 10, 2018

Dear Aunt Connie, Christina and Maria~
I am very sad to hear about Uncle Jack. He always made me feel like a princess. :)
Please know that I am thinking of you all, and sending much, much love.
Love,
Maggie

LaNell

February 10, 2018

What a long and interesting life. He was the handsomest man in the world.

Jerri' Ervin

February 10, 2018

I am so sorry to hear of John Gavin's passing.

Sheila

February 10, 2018

Sad to hear this wonderful handsome actor has passed. May he Rest in eternal Peace.

February 10, 2018

Wish the family comfort and peace while focusing on their loss. Psalm 145:1820

Jeffrey Bonk

February 10, 2018

I was so sad to hear of John Gavin's death. He was a wonderful actor, and a very good man.

I have been a fan of his since I saw him in the movie "Backstreet" with Susan Hayward on NBC Saturday Night At The Movies, as a young boy growing up in New Hampshire.

He will live on forever in his movies, and in the hearts of all of his fans.

My thoughts and my prayers are with him, and with all of his family at this very sad time.

Barbara Wisbey

February 10, 2018

My favorite John Gavin Movie was "BACKSTREET" with Susan Hayward in 1961.

I enjoyed seeing him in any movie!!!

He was totally GORGEOUS in my opinion!

One of the best looking Hollywood Actors ever!

Patricia Denk

February 10, 2018

To Mr. Gavin's Family:
I am one of the many women who swooned at John's handsome face - and he seemed like such a kind, gentle man.
You have my sincere condolences, may God comfort you at this difficult time.

Denise Swanson

February 10, 2018

My favorite actor!!! Loved him -!!

Merridy Willson

February 10, 2018

When I was a teenager I saw Back Street and fell madly in love with John. I am so very sad that he has died.

Pat Sissenstein

February 10, 2018

So sad and devastated to read this. He was one of my all-time favorite actors.

Juanita

February 10, 2018

Sincere condolences to the family for your loss. Please know that others share your grief and pray for God to comfort each of you.

Judy Huelga

February 10, 2018

May he rest in peace. He seems like he was a kind and caring gentleman. Prayers for his family during this difficult time. My favorite movie of his was "Imitation of Life."

Arlene Lewis

February 10, 2018

My grand'mother knew John well, thought
He was the Handsomest Man in the state of
California also a really nice man.
God Bless His Family

February 10, 2018

Rest in peace John Gavin. I will always remember the role he played in "Midnight Lace" with Doris Day and Rex Harrison. A talent who is and always will be missed.

Another fan

February 10, 2018

Constance, Cristina, Maria, Michael, Maureen, Family, Fans,

So very sorry to hear of the loss of a wonderful actor. He did an excellent job in the movie that he played a doctor in. There was a car crash and he hit a lady and blinded her. What a brilliant job he did. I loved that movie. Cherish his awesome memories. Our prayers are with your family. May the God who gives peace be with all of you.

Adrian Barnette

February 10, 2018

We'll miss you !

a fan

February 10, 2018

I was one of those young girls who fell in love at first sight. He seems like he was a wonderful man. Sorry for your loss.

C S

February 10, 2018

I'm so sorry for your loss. May the God of all comfort be with you and your family at this time.

Judy Simons

February 10, 2018

He was a great actor! He will be missed. RIP

February 10, 2018

So many women swooned and now are heartbroken. We will miss him

Showing 1 - 99 of 99 results

Make a Donation
in John Gavin's name

How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor John Gavin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored