(Provided information and photos)
This past Thursday, March 27th, Batavia lost lifelong resident Josh Gaylord, 46, after passing away unexpectedly despite the brave, life-saving efforts of his son Vinny, who just turned 19. Josh leaves behind not only Vinny, but also his younger son Tommy, still in high school, and his wife Joyce, who now faces the unimaginable.
“Josh was the heart of our family, and of everyone lucky enough to know him. He was the person you turned to when you needed a pep talk, some grounded advice, or just someone to truly listen. He lifted people up, reminding us all to see the bigger picture and to keep going, no matter how hard life seemed. He believed in the power of positive affirmations, and he lived by them, spreading hope, love, and light everywhere he went. As the youngest of my five brothers, Josh held a special place in our family, and as the baby sister, I shared a unique and close bond with him that I will cherish forever,” says Samantha Maguire.
Josh was still working at the time of his passing, according to Maguire, and now that income is gone. “Joyce is overwhelmed with grief and uncertainty, unsure how she’ll be able to move forward alone.”
Fundraiser by Samantha Maguire : Help Joyce and the Boys After Losing Josh
Maguire says funds raised will cover funeral costs, pay monthly bills, or support Vinny and Tommy’s futures.
“Every dollar will go directly to Joyce and the boys.”
“Josh was a devoted family man, survived by his wife, Joyce, a dedicated corrections officer in Batavia. She is profoundly devastated by his passing, as are their two sons, Vinny, who graduated last year, and Tommy, who is currently navigating high school without his father’s guiding presence. Our family, deeply rooted in Batavia, mourns the loss of a cherished brother, husband, father, and friend,” says Maguire
Obituary information for Joshua S. Gaylord
“He was well-known in the community for his entrepreneurial spirit. He dedicated a lot of his time to flipping houses throughout Batavia. His passion for the culinary arts led him to establish Yuma Sushi, a venture he proudly operated from his cousin’s establishment, Pauly’s Pizza, before it became Cinquino’s Pizza. Through these endeavors, Josh not only showcased his business acumen but also his commitment to bringing people together over good food and shared experiences.”
At the time of his untimely death, he was working at O-AT-KA Milk Products.
“His coworkers couldn’t work the line on Friday. A grief counselor is coming in on Monday for employees,” says Maguire.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Josh was larger than life Maguire said. His infectious humor and happy-go-lucky nature made him a friend to everyone he met.
“Everyone loved Josh from the first minute they met him. People gravitated to him. The outpouring of love and support from the community has been a testament to the profound impact Josh had on those around him. As we come together to remember and celebrate his life, we find comfort in the countless memories and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.”
A beautiful article on Josh and his family. What a loss to the community and family this man is. My heart goes out to Josh’s immediate family, and to his dear, sweet mother Michelle – whose heart must be broke. My sincere condolences are with all of you.
Love always, FS