Kevin P. Lavin, "Kevin", 79, or as he liked to be known, Kevin Patrick Michael Conway Lavin the First, returned home to his loving God on December 5, 2018. Born in Providence on August 19, 1939, he was the son of the late John and Mary (Conway) Lavin. He is survived by the love of his life, Carol (Haggis), his always supportive spouse and partner for 48 years. He is also survived by his daughters, Elizabeth (Kyle Phelps) of Dallas, Texas, and Patricia (John Roland) of Irmo, South Carolina, as well as his cherished grandchildren, John, Emily and the never to be overlooked Elle. He is survived as well by his brother, John, the pastor emeritus of St. Joseph of Newport. He was also the father of the late Little John, who was taken from us much too soon.
Kevin remained always the loyal and proud LaSallian as well as a graduate of Providence College, the University of Bridgeport, and Rhode Island College. An educator for most of his working life, he taught in both the Cranston and Providence school systems. An intrepid entrepreneur, he was a respected realtor. He also taught happily and enthusiastically at the Adult Correctional Institutions, particularly in the women division. A competitive swimmer and coach, ever the lifeguard, swimming remained a vital part of his adult years. A humble, always kind man of abiding faith, who never really caught the spirit of Vatican II, as he prayed the rosary during daily mass, while also invoking the assistance of the Holy Ghost. Never losing his sense of humor, he was truly a gifted, yet gentle mimic and a man of adept Irish storytelling. He loved all children and dogs of all breeds, especially his own. Never an accomplished driver, one was always well advised to drive behind him, well behind him, as he engaged in animated conversation with any passenger. In the end, he saw only good in others, saying that you just had to look for it in them. He lived and passed with a big heart and a warm embrace. He will be missed and his memory cherished by those who experienced his spirit and zest for life.
Family and friends are invited to join in celebrating a Mass of Christian Burial for Kevin on Monday, December 10th at 10 AM in the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, 114 High Street, Wakefield, R.I. Visiting hours will be omitted and burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tomorrow Fund, Hasbro Children’s Hospital, Providence, R.I. "Live Jesus in our hearts. Forever."