John Gill Jr.
November 6, 1959- April 16, 2025
A Man of Mirth and Love
It is with heavy hearts and deep love that we announce the passing of John Gill Jr., who left this world peacefully on April 16, surrounded by those who meant the most to him.
John grew up in West Roxbury, a place that helped shape the warmth, humor, and grit he carried throughout his life. He was a proud Catholic Memorial High School graduate and later earned his degree from UMass Boston, reflecting his dedication to hard work, education, and perseverance.
John loved life and brought humor and warmth to everyone he met. He was a born storyteller who turned something as simple as a failed fishing knot into a 20-minute rant, laced with caustic, acerbic wit that left everyone in stitches. Whether he was cooking for a crowd, battling a tuna out at sea with his fishing buddies, playing on the floor with his grandkids, teeing off at Ponky, or driving the senior shuttle, John was always quick with a kind word or perfectly timed wisecrack.
He was also an athlete with heart — a star catcher for the Clams of the West Roxbury Men’s Softball League, where his quick hands, sharp eye, and even sharper dugout banter made him a legend among teammates and competitors alike.
Some of John’s happiest days were spent on the water, fishing with his dad and his brother Joe nearly every Father’s Day, chasing striped bass around the Boston Harbor Islands. His love of fishing started early — with flounder trips in Quincy Bay, where he’d often reel in more skate than flounder, but always with a laugh and a good story to bring home.
John brought joy to everyone he worked with over the years — from working the deli at Purity Supreme, to overseeing ad inserts for the Bob’s at the Boston Herald, to managing the Fan Pier seafood processing for Stavis, and even mastering bovine insemination in Northern Vermont (though rumors of redheaded cows remain unconfirmed). Whatever the job, John showed up with humor, work ethic, and an ability to connect with anyone.
He was the devoted and loving father of twin daughters, Kate and Erin, and nothing brought him greater joy than watching them build lives filled with love and purpose. He took immense pride in their families and the close bond they all shared.
Kate is married to Marvin Dormainville, and together they are raising John’s beloved grandson Miles, who brought endless light into his life. Erin is married to Brett Johnson, and their daughter, Nora was another bright joy in John’s heart — his sweet granddaughter who made his face light up with every smile.
John also shared a deep and unwavering bond with the love of his life, Susan Clover of Hull, MA. Their partnership was filled with laughter, support, and genuine companionship — a love that stood the test of time and gave John a profound sense of happiness.
John is survived by his loving parents, Jack and Fran Gill, who remained a steady presence and source of love throughout his life. He is also survived by his brother Joe Gill, his wife Anne, his sister Debbie Wightman, and her husband Paul, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever carry his spirit with them.