Obituary
Brenton Roy Gavidia
May 12, 1982 – September 17, 2021
It feels impossible and indescribably painful to write down the words that Brenton Roy Gavidia‘s life was tragically lost to complications from COVID-19 on September 17, 2021. He was only 39.
Brent was loved—and liked—by so many. He still had it—the smile and spark in his eyes of a little kid. He brought joy with him wherever he went and gave it to us through his laugh as a gift that we won’t forget. If you had to choose one word to describe Brent as a man, it would be maker. He made things. He was a very talented carpenter for over 20 years, designing and making beautiful custom cabinetry and renovating homes in Delaware, Pennsylvania, New York, and most recently in Port Orange, Florida where he lived for two years. He always had big ideas and plans he was making. He made cool haircuts for himself and for others. More recently, he made promo and live performance videos for a few bands he liked. He was a fabulous cook, could dice like a chef, and made super creative and delicious meals. He loved the beach and would surprise you with the sand sculptures he could make. He made good friends wherever he went. But the very best things he helped make are his two gorgeous-hearted sons, Gavin (20) and Lohgan (15). They were raised in the most loving and happy home, and that they have some of the very best parts of Brent is a beautiful thing both for them and for all of us to see. Our hearts crack open at the immense sadness and loss they feel at losing their dad. What a tremendous void and pain for them to bear.
Yes, Brent was a maker. But THE Maker of the highest heavens… Maker of all the stars… the One who counts them and calls all of them by name… Brent now belongs to Him—to Jehovah God. (Psalm 147:4,5; Romans 14:7-9) Stars burn out and never get back their light. But Brent is way more than a burned out star to God. Just as Jehovah God has the power to create galaxies full of stars, He promises and has the power to remember and re-create Brent and all of the things that we love about him in a resurrection to life on earth.
In addition to his sons, Gavin and Lohgan, he is survived by their mother, Kristal, his mother, Jan Bailey (and Sam), his siblings, Tracey (and Steve), Tim (and Jenny), Debby, Jason (and Kellen), Sam Bailey, and Tawny Bailey, his maternal Grandma, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. We’ll all miss him more than we can say. He is predeceased by his father, Ralph Gavidia who died in January of this year (and surviving step-mother, Sandy), and by his sister, Rebecca Azua (2004).
It will never feel okay that Brent died. Not ever. His warmth, brightness, and love for people and life is what we’ll always carry with us.
Brent’s memorial service will be held virtually at 4:00 pm on Sunday, October 3, 2021. Zoom login information will be provided to invited guests.
I miss him so much!
Brent with his sister Becca at the ATL airport where he had a layover on his way home from Florida. We got to stop in and spend time with him.
The first time I met Brent he was 12 years old. I was dating his older brother. He had a lay over at the ATL airport and we stopped by so his brother sand Sister could see him. He would later become my Brother-in-law. This is tragic. I feel heart broken that his sons will grow up without their father and he will miss out on their future. I am heart broken for his mother, no mother should have to bury a child no matter the age. I am heart broken for his siblings because they have lost the baby of their family. I am heart broken for his nieces and nephews who love their uncle. I am heart broken for his wife, she didn't deserve to have to say goodbye to her husband so prematurely. Death is unfair and I can't wait til we no longer have to deal with this.
Brent demonstrating his hair cutting skills on Taylor
Part of our group to Lake Placid. Such a fun family trip
Taylor and Brent were so close and I’m so happy we all had a chance to reconnect. Very grateful for the memories we created and all the laughs we shared. We love and miss you very much Brent! <3
Brent & Lohgan. 2006
Brent and Krissy visiting in 2006. Crystal River.
Pennsylvania-Dec 2016
With our doodles
Crystal River, FL
2006
Tracey and Steve’s wedding
Kissing that precious face:) Around 1990(I’m thinking this was the same trip to Kennedy Space Center)
A trip to Kennedy Space Center. Throwback to the “90’s”
Get together at Mom & Carter’s house
July 2019
Summer 2006
Bowling at Manatee Lanes
2006
Matching Sleeves
Dinner at Cheddars in Ocala, FL
March 2020
Pennsylvania-Dec 2016
Taylor, Amanda & Brent
Cousins
Throwback to the 80’s
One of my favorite photos from when Brian and Brent were toddlers. Delaware 1983
You had the BEST laugh and an infectious smile. Just always such a joy to be around, and an amazing person. I’m so glad I got to reconnect with you recently when you moved to Florida. I remember when I found out you moved here I thought, “one of my favorite cousins living closer, yes!” I was so excited and hopeful we’d get to spend more time together. You were so happy and we made such great memories! Starting at Bank Street with Taylor, celebrating my birthday out in Daytona, shenanigans at Topgolf, coming to cookouts at my house, or you and Dana making a trip here just to hang out. I’m only regretful I didn’t spend more time with you recently. We get busy with life, our kids, and think we have all the time in the world, until something like this happens and makes you realize what is most important. I just hope you know how much I love you and how dearly you will be missed.
Until we meet again <3
Love, Amanda
Brian and Brent at bath time, Delaware 1983
Brent and Brian watching Sesame Street together:)
Brian and Brent in Delaware 1982
Brian and Brent were only 4&1/2 months apart. They were very close and spent a lot of time together until we moved to back to Florida.
Jaxon meeting his cousin Brent for the first time He was a natural with babies!
Thank you for being such a wonderful cousin and friend. I love you.
Love Aunt Erin