Obituary of Gerardo Avila

Gerardo Avila, 90 (October 3, 1935 – January 2, 2026) , of Staten Island, passed away on January 2, 2026. He was the son of Canuto Avila and Juana Castillo and the beloved husband of Perla Avila, with whom he shared 52 years of marriage.

Gerardo was a devoted father to five children, Maria, Samuel, Raquel, Elias, and Nelson. He was also a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren, Omar, Jerald, Richard, Richelle, Esther, Randy, Jordin, Jazlyn, and Emilie. He is also survived by his dear sister, Elsa Romero.

Gerardo was born and raised in Higüey, Dominican Republic. In 1980, he came to the United States to reunite with his sister and help care for her three daughters. During this time, he found employment at Sea View Hospital Rehabilitation Center and Home, where he worked faithfully until his retirement.

He was an active member of several communities, including the church Iglesia de Dios Pentecostal El Amparo Divino, as well as the Stapleton and Park Hill neighborhoods. Gerardo enjoyed cooking, reading the Bible, singing worship songs, giving advice, teaching others how to drive, and most importantly helping anyone in need.

Gerardo had a gift for conversation and friendship, and he could connect with anyone he met. He was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and friend. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.