Barry S. Decker
United Airlines Retiree
Barry S. Decker of Lynn, formerly of Revere, passed away on January 27 at the age of 70. Born on September 7, 1953, he was the son of the late Orland and Georgieanna Decker.
A proud veteran, Barry honorably served his country in the U.S. Army, displaying the utmost courage and patriotism. After his military service, he embarked on a distinguished career as a lead mechanic for United Airlines, retiring in 2016 after many years of dedicated service.
A man of great humor and compassion, Barry was known for his generosity and honesty. His presence brought laughter and warmth to any gathering, and his integrity was a model for all who knew him.
Barry is survived by his loving life partner of 20 years, Kathy, whom he loved and adored more than anything. He was a guiding force and cherished stepfather to three sons: Richard DiPietro and his wife, Angie DiPietro of Malden, Scott Long and Katherine Paz of Lynn and James Long and his fiance, Cassandra Bassant of Revere; his adored grandchildren: Raliya, Ariana, McKenzie, Jakob, Bianca and Jayce, along with his niece, Briana, brought him immeasurable happiness and a sense of overwhelming pride. His memory will be cherished by his sister and best friend, Jeri, his sister, Lani and his brother, Maurice.
Barry was preceded in death by his parents, Orland and Georgieanna, in-laws, Billy and Roberta Dolan and his brothers and sister-in-law, Billy (JR.), Marty and Donna Dolan. His family takes solace in knowing that he is now reunited with them in eternal peace.
Barry’s passions were as simple as they were sincere: he delighted in spending time with family and friends, cooking on the grill, and the excitement of watching the Patriots game with his friend, Ray. The freedom of the open road on his motorcycle, particularly during Laconia Bike Week, which he enjoyed with Kathy, were some of his favorite stories to tell. His grandchildren were the recipients of his playful spirit and generous time. He relished every opportunity he had to create lasting memories with them.
Barry’s departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the enduring impact he made on our lives through his example of strength, compassion and unwavering commitment to his loved ones.
At this time, there are no planned services.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of one’s choice in Barry’s memory.
Eileen Gavin
She Will Always Be Remembered as a Loving Wife, Mother and Grandmother Who Dedicated Her Life to Her Family
Eileen (Gould) Gavin of Winthrop passed away on January 31. She was 81 years old.
Eileen was the beloved wife of William A. Gavin. Born in Winthrop, she was the daughter of the late Marion (Callahan) and George E. Gould.
Prior to her retirement, Eileen worked as the administrative assistant to the President of Time Life Music. Eileen will always be remembered as loving wife, mother and grandmother who dedicated her life to her family.
Eileen was the devoted mother of Jill Gannon and her husband, Alonzo Doe of Westampton, NJ. and Jodi St. Ours and her husband, Michael of Fredericksburg, VA. She was the adored grandmother of Haley Gannon of Charlottesville, VA, Brady Gannon of Corpus Christi, TX, Gavin St. Ours of Fredericksburg, VA, and step-grandson Devyn St. Ours of Arnold, MD; the dear sister of Joanne Biagi of Virginia and the late Marion Gale and Grace Waugh. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Visiting hours will be held in the Maurice W. Kirby Funeral Home, 210 Winthrop St., Winthrop, on Friday, February 9, from 9 to 11 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass to be celebrate in St. Michaels Parish (St. John the Evangelist Church) 320 Winthrop St. ,Winthrop at 11:30 a.m. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Assn. 309 Waverley Oaks Rd. Waltham, MA. 02452. To sign Eileen’s guestbook, please visit: www.mauricekirbyfh.com?.
Nicholas Grassa, Sr.
Owned and Operated “Nick Grassa Trucking” for 50 Years
Nicholas Grassa, Sr., of Revere, passed away on January 30th at 87 years old.
Born in Boston, he was the son of Andrew and Antonina (Scaturro). He was raised and educated in Revere and attended Revere High School. Nick owned and operated his own trucking company “Nick Grassa Trucking” for over 50 years. He was a devoted husband and father who enjoyed being with his family.
Nick enjoyed the outdoors and the wildlife he encountered. He loved snowmobiling during the winter months and was an avid hunter and fisherman.
The beloved husband of 58 years of Carol F. (DiFiore) Grassa of Revere, he was the devoted father of Nicholas J. Grassa, Jr. and his wife, Denise M. of Saugus, Anthony A. Grassa and his wife ,Susan of Pelham, New Hampshire, Dean Cowhig of Methuen and the late William Cowhig; cherished grandfather of Katie Grassa, and Tori L. Grassa and her companion Jacob S. Butler and David and Lindsey Cowhig; dear brother of Rosalyn Tripoli and her husband, Bart of Revere; loving uncle of Lisa Holmes and her husband, Steven and Diane Cassinello and her husband, Christopher.
Funeral Services were held privately. To send online condolences, please visit: www.vertucciosmithvazza.com. Funeral Services entrusted to the care and direction of the Vertuccio Smith & Vazza, Beechwood Home for Funerals.
