Jerome “Uncle Jer” Gavin passed away on September 1, 2023, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved mentor to many lifeguards in Chicago. For decades, Gavin served with the Chicago Park District, shaping the lives and careers of numerous young guards and junior guards under his watchful eye. His influence extended far beyond the beach, as he guided many into careers in public service, including nursing, teaching, and firefighting.
Gavin’s journey as a lifeguard began at Loyola Park Beach in Rogers Park in the 1970s. Sheila Rogers Clancy, a former lifeguard who knew him well, recounted her first encounter with him. “I ran up from the beach and he was in his captain’s uniform. ‘Where’s your whistle?’ he asked, emphasizing the seriousness of our responsibilities,” she recalled. To Clancy and her peers, Gavin’s stern demeanor was offset by his genuine care for their well-being. He taught them that their roles were crucial and that safety was paramount.
Gavin was not the archetypal lifeguard; he did not possess the athletic build typical of his colleagues. Instead, he was described as a bit paunchy, with dark hair lightly sprinkled with gray. Yet, his dedication and heart made him a towering figure in the lives of those he mentored. He often reminded young guards of the importance of physical fitness for rescue situations, infusing humor into his lessons. Clancy shared a memorable anecdote where Gavin humorously indicated that he sometimes needed the oxygen for himself during emergencies.
His protective nature extended beyond training. Gavin looked after his lifeguard family as a father would, offering sage advice to young women about choosing partners and guiding young men—whom he affectionately called “knuckleheads.” Despite his occasional frustration with their reckless behavior, he remained steadfast in his commitment to their safety, never hesitating to intervene when he saw them in danger.
Gavin’s impact is evident in the paths taken by those he mentored. Many of his former lifeguards are now in professions dedicated to helping others. He even supported one guard financially, providing $5,000 to publish a book about the junior guard program he was so passionate about.
Throughout his career, Gavin performed numerous rescues, earning accolades for his bravery. He saved many lives, including young children who found themselves in peril at the beach. However, the losses he experienced in his personal life were profound. His daughter, Katie, who was born with cystic fibrosis, passed away at just 11 years old. The tragedy left a lasting mark on Gavin and his family.
In his lifeguard family, Gavin had a special bond with a guard named Billy, who came from a large and vibrant family. Billy struggled with his direction in life, and Gavin provided guidance that ultimately led him to the military. Tragically, Billy died by suicide, a loss that deeply affected Gavin. Clancy speculated that Gavin may have grappled with feelings of regret regarding both Katie and Billy, wishing he could have done more to help them.
Gavin’s character shone through in his kindness, empathy, and humor. His passing on the last day of the beach season feels symbolic, marking the end of an era for those who knew him. As Clancy reflected, “Your watch has come to an end, Uncle Jer. Rest easy, my friend.” His legacy will continue to inspire new generations of lifeguards, reminding them of the importance of dedication, care, and community service.
