It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Gavin Cole Hutcherson, a beloved 13-year-old from Martinsville, Virginia, who left us on Monday, May 4, 2026. Gavin was born on December 19, 2012, in Danville, Virginia, to Heather Coleman Joyce and Randall Hutcherson (Kim). His life was filled with love, joy, and an infectious spirit that touched everyone he knew.
Gavin was preceded in death by his stepfather, Stephen Joyce; his papa, Doug Hutcherson; and his maternal grandparents, Howard and Sandra Coleman. Although these loved ones are no longer with us in body, their memories and the love they shared continue to live on in Gavin’s bright spirit.
Gavin was a seventh grader at Victory Baptist Church Academy, where he was known for his bright mind and kind heart. He loved Jesus and was saved through his confession of faith, actively attending New Life Community Church. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding him with hope and love.
A bright young man with a lively personality, Gavin brought happiness and laughter to those around him. His love for his family was profound, and he shared a particularly special bond with his brother, Evan. Gavin often expressed a desire to have a car just like his brother’s someday, showing his admiration and affection.
Gavin’s joyful spirit extended to his favorite activities and passions. He loved trips to Chick-fil-A and McDonald’s, indulging in ice cream and all kinds of chocolate treats. He enjoyed the outdoors immensely—whether at the beach, the lake, or swimming in the pool, he loved to splash and play in the water. Gavin also enjoyed playing video games, building Legos, and collecting army men, displaying his creative and adventurous side.
His feisty personality and lively nature left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Gavin’s vibrant energy, kindness, and genuine love for life made him truly special. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving parents, Heather Coleman Joyce and Randall Hutcherson (Kim); his brother, Julio Evan Campos; sister, Kelsie Rea; granny, Jeannie Hutcherson; grandparents, Danny and Joan Joyce; great grandma, Jean Neville; aunts Cindy Ray (Patrick), Alison Holt (Brad), and Amanda Worrell (Mitchell); uncle, Jason Coleman (Jennifer); cousins Emily Ray, Mallory Ray, Shyanne Holt, Jake Holt, Abigail Worrell, Ian Coleman, and Abigail Coleman; his beloved fur babies Cinnamon, Oreo, Drake, Lucy, Sophie, Debbie Snacks, and Vegas; along with numerous extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.
A funeral service to honor Gavin’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at New Life Community Church, located at 415 Mica Road, Ridgeway, Virginia. Pastor Terry Knighten will officiate. Interment will follow at the Coleman Family Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the same church.
Gavin’s joyful spirit and loving heart will be missed beyond words, but his memory will continue to inspire all who knew him. Rest in peace, dear Gavin—you will forever be in our hearts.