Gavin Raiteri

Obituary For Gavin Raiteri

Gavin Marc Raiteri

Gavin Marc Raiteri, beloved father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend, passed away on June 21, 2025, in Bluffton, South Carolina, at the age of 58. Born on August 24, 1966, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Gavin lived a life defined by love, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family and community.

Gavin was the proud and devoted father of four daughters: Desiree’ Raiteri, Jonee’ Harris, Adaijah Raiteri, and Aniyah Raiteri. He was also a proud and loving grandfather to three grandchildren: Jai’Darius Prigmore-Woods, Ja’Ny Farmer, and Ja’ir Raiteri. He is survived by his loving parents, Carol Lynn Raiteri and Joseph Mark Raiteri; his siblings, Valentine Raiteri and Ashley Raiteri; nieces and nephews; and many cherished friends who became like family over the years.

When Gavin was raising his first daughter, he worked the graveyard shift at Kearns Bakery while attending his first years at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, showing early on the kind of determination and sacrifice that would define his life as a father. He later spent many years working for UPS, where he became known for his strong work ethic and dependability. Eventually, he followed his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for the road to become a truck driver and the owner of his own logistics company—a role he took great pride in.

Gavin loved being on the road, but even more, he loved being a father. As a single dad, he made countless sacrifices to support his daughters and to create meaningful, lasting memories with them. Spending time with his children was his greatest joy, and becoming a grandfather brought him even deeper purpose and pride.

A true lover of sports, Gavin was rarely far from a game—whether watching basketball, football, baseball, or hockey. But more than just a fan, he was a dedicated community coach, leading both basketball and football teams for local youth. He organized fundraisers to help his players travel to tournaments, often reaching into his own pocket to make sure every child had the opportunity to play and succeed.

He also enjoyed playing video games, listening to R&B music, and spending time with his beloved dog, Harley. Gavin was known for his big heart, forgiving nature, and boundless generosity. He was a good friend to everyone around him—loyal, dependable, and always willing to give his last to someone in need.

One of Gavin’s lifelong goals was to make his mother and father proud. What he never fully realized was that his father had always been proud of him—proud of the man he became, the father he was, and the love he gave so freely.

Gavin’s legacy lives on through his children, grandchildren, and the many lives he touched. He will be remembered always as a devoted father, a proud grandfather, a true friend, and a leader in the community who led with love, strength, and a giving spirit.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, June 28, 2025 from 11-12:00 p.m. with the Celebration of Life Service to begin at 12:00 noon at the Overcoming Believers Church, 211 Harriet Tubman St. Knoxville, TN 37915 where Pastor Daryl Arnold, Pastor and Pastor Vincent M. Jones, Jr., officiating.

Mr. Raiteri will be laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery by way of horse drawn carriage. A dove release will conclude in his honor.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Unity Mortuary and staff. www.unitymortuary1979.com