Christina (Tierney) Gavin
Obituary
Christina Gavin died peacefully at home on July 27, 2023.
Christina was born to Denis and Maggie Tierney on January 6, 1936, in Terryglass, County Tipperary, Ireland. She lived on the family farm until earning a scholarship to attend St. Francis College in Letchworth, England. After graduating as the top Scholar Athlete, Chris worked in London for the next decade; most notably as a fit model for designer houses, including Sir Hardy Amies, official dressmaker to Queen Elizabeth II. Paid in clothes, no doubt Chris was the most stylish in any room, although it was her accounting jobs that gave her the most satisfaction. While attending her sister's wedding, Chris met, and fell for, the brother of the groom, Irishman Gerald P. Gavin, MSG US Army. After a lengthy courtship, they were married at the Presidio Chapel in San Francisco.
Chris relished her time as a military wife and new mother, living throughout the U.S. and Europe, collecting cherished friends at every post; a lifelong pursuit. Chris and Gerry eventually settled in Morgan Hill, where they raised their four children in a home that was the center of activity for many friends, neighbors, and visiting relatives. Chris worked at the Morgan Hill Public Library and was an enthusiastic volunteer for local charities. A happy California transplant, she made yearly trips to Ireland to visit family. Her five grandchildren filled her life with great joy. Chris was a natural athlete, talented dancer, loyal friend, generous neighbor, and gracious hostess. In later years, Chris moved closer to family where she remained active, positive, and grateful for a life well lived.
Christina is survived by her children, John, Brian, Colleen and Kelly, their respective partners, grandchildren, sister-in-law, nieces, nephews and cherished friends. Predeceased by husband Gerry and all of her siblings, Christina will be interred with family in Ireland. A memorial tea for family and friends will be held in Morgan Hill at a later date. For information please email, ChristinaGavinMemorial@Gmail.com. In lieu of flowers, the Gavin family requests that you return your library books on time and raise a glass to the joyous reunion of Chris and Gerry.
Published in Morgan Hill Times · August 2, 2023