On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, Gavin P. Martin, 21, of Edgecomb, Maine, formerly of Verona, New Jersey, tragically passed away.

Born in Livingston, New Jersey, and raised in Verona Township, Gavin grew into a young man defined by his unwavering sense of responsibility, natural leadership, and genuine kindness. He was a proud graduate of Verona High School, Class of 2022, where he played football and earned the respect of teammates, coaches, and friends through his determination, loyalty, and character.

Even at a young age, Gavin stood apart for his initiative and work ethic. He founded his own business, GPM Landscaping, while also working alongside his uncle and cousin at Martin Contracting in Verona.

Following high school, Gavin earned his associate degree from Central Maine Community College, continuing to pursue growth and opportunity with the same drive that guided him throughout his life. In the summer of 2023, he was selected to join the Horticulture Team at Walt Disney World’s EPCOT Theme Park, where he successfully completed the highly regarded Mouseters Internship Program, graduating in August 2023.

After completing the program, Gavin returned to Maine, where he worked as a CDL-B driver for the Township of Waldoboro, once again choosing a role rooted in service to the community he loved.

Although Gavin was raised in Verona, the State of Maine held a special place in his heart, shaped by many summers spent there with family. That connection grew stronger as he worked as a dock manager for the North End Lobster Co-Op and ultimately made Edgecomb his home.

Service was not just something Gavin believed in. It was how he lived. He volunteered as a Firefighter with both the Verona Fire Department in New Jersey and the Edgecomb Fire Department in Maine, answering the call to protect and serve without hesitation. He was also an active and devoted member of Our Lady of the Lake Church in Verona, where his faith and commitment to others remained central to his life.

With the assistance of a Board of Directors and sponsorship from Verona Police PBA Local 72, the Gavin Martin Foundation is being established to honor Gavin’s life, character, and enduring legacy. Gavin’s passion for service, tireless work ethic, and deep commitment to community touched countless lives. Though he was taken far too soon, his impact continues through the values he lived by every day: dedication, compassion, integrity, and a sincere desire to help others.

We are currently in the process of establishing the Gavin Martin Foundation and creating a dedicated platform to accept donations so we can continue Gavin’s legacy. In the meantime, donations in support of the Gavin Martin Foundation may be made through this GoFundMe page, sponsored by the Verona Police PBA Local 72. Donations may also be made by check, payable to Verona PBA Local 72 - Civic Association, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, making all donations tax deductible. Checks should be mailed to Verona PBA 72, P.O. Box 72, Verona, NJ 07044. Please note “Gavin Martin Foundation” in the memo or subject line of all checks.

The Gavin Martin Foundation will transform compassion into action by supporting community-based initiatives that embody service, entrepreneurship, and dedication. We honor Gavin's legacy by investing in young and old alike, empowering service organizations, fostering entrepreneurial spirit, advancing vocational training, and strengthening civic engagement.

Through this fundraiser, we seek to transform loss into lasting purpose. This effort is not only about remembrance. It is about resolve. It is about choosing purpose in the face of loss and ensuring that Gavin’s life continues to create impact, opportunity, and hope. Every contribution helps carry forward Gavin’s legacy of service, generosity, and community commitment, allowing his spirit to live on through meaningful action for years to come.

Thank you for honoring Gavin Martin by supporting the mission he lived every day.

In honor of Gavin, with love and gratitude,

The Martin Family