Obituary of James Kevin Gaynor

James K. Gaynor ASHTABULA- James Kevin Gaynor, 63 passed away Monday, January 10, 2022, while a resident of Carington Park. The son of John B. and Mary (Finnegan) Gaynor, Jim was born on May 11, 1958, in Geneva on Mother’s Day. One of eight children, Jim grew up on the family farm in Footville, Ohio. A Geneva High School graduate, Jim remained in close contact with his classmates over the years. Jim loved his days at Geneva and would hold dear his friends for the rest his life. Jim “The Gain” Gaynor (football jersey number 74) was one of the Geneva undefeated 75-76 Football team of Coach Bob Herpy. Jim went on to graduate from Kent State University, Kent, Ohio with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He had an amazing mind for business and economics. While at Kent, Jim learned to play golf as a way to rehabilitate from injuries suffered in a car accident. This passion for golf would last a lifetime. He was employed as a food broker for many years, he enjoyed meeting and chatting with his customers. He claimed he honed his business skills from his days as a standup comedian at a local Kent comedy nightclub. Jim had a funny bone and was known for his ability to tell jokes. Once people got to know him, they became friends he cared about. Always good at sports, Jim loved playing football the most. To keep in touch with the game, Jim really enjoyed working for the Cleveland Browns in concessions throughout the 1980’s. He always said, it wasn’t work, it was a way to watch the Browns for free. His passion was golf and he worked at area golf courses as a part-time greens keeper before his disability kept him from working. A member of Ruritans of Trumbull Township, Jim loved volunteering his time helping his friends and community. He served many dinners and lunches to help preserve the old Footville one room schoolhouse. He also helped to restore and preserve the historic landmark with fellow Ruritans and his dad, John Gaynor by his side. Jim also had his Carington Park family. His disability came on suddenly but with their gentle care and understanding Jim had a life with purpose. He was known for his kindness and helped fellow residents with daily needs, always enjoyed the activities and entertainment. He was a very good singer and really loved karaoke! Jim was always the life of many parties and he will be sorely missed by the residents and his caregivers. Special thank you to all the staff at Carington Park, Mary, Pam, Kathy, social services, Cindy and so many, many more. Thank you to Hospice of the Western Reserve for easing Jim into his next adventure. A very special thanks to his constant companion, partner and love, Jenna. A man of deep faith, Jim was a member of Assumption Catholic Church of Geneva. He always prayed for others and especially his beloved Cleveland Browns. His prayers were answered as they won their final game the day before he passed away. Jim is survived by siblings, Mary “Joan” Pope of Doylestown, PA, John (Ginny) Gaynor of Wauseon, Anne (Bob) Yeager of Orwell, Sue Hunt of Paupack, PA, Judy (Don) Campbell of Jefferson, Jane (Tom) Reynolds of Northfield, Janet (Steve) Handshaw of Solon and loving nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews. He leaves behind many cousins and dear friends, Frank “Buzz” Carraher, Tom Titman, and brothers, Eddie and Tom Hjerpe and so many more. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, brothers-in-law Frederick Pope and William Hunt. A celebration of Jim’s life will be held Sunday July 17 2022, at the Gaynor Family Farm, Footville, Ohio. More details will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to: Carington Park Activities Department in James Gaynor’s memory, 2217 West Ave, Ashtabula, OH 44004. Ducro Funeral Services and Crematory, 4524 Elm avenue, Ashtabula, Ohio is assisting the family.www.ducro.com