Donavin Paul Gear, 78 of Galena, MD passed away on August 31, 2026 at home with his loving wife Shirley by his side.

Mr. Gear was born on October 16, 1947 in Prospect Park, PA, son of the late Donavin Miller Gear and Millie Workman Gear. He obtained his B.A. Degree from Columbia University and later began his career with Bell Telephone now Verizon, retiring after 33 years of service as a manager.

Mr. Gear enjoyed sailing, boating, dogs, woodworking and making wooden gifts at Christmas for friends and neighbors. He also enjoyed making Corian cutting boards for craft events and was known for the crab shaped board. He was a great guitar and piano player.

Mr. Gear was a member of the Galena Volunteer Fire Company.

Along with his parents, he was preceded by his sister Janet.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Shirely Kephart Gear.

Per his wishes services will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be offered to the Galena V.F.C., PO Box 189, Galena, MD 21635

Arrangements by Galena Funeral Home of Stephen L. Schaech.