Dennis Earl Gaskins
May 7, 1952 - August 23, 2026
Dennis Earl Gaskins, age 74, of Townsend, DE, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 23, 2026.
Born in Morehead City, NC, on May 7, 1952, he was the son of the late John and Bernice “Bunny” (Forbes) Gaskins. A graduate of Henry C. Conrad High School, Dennis spent his career in the automotive industry. He owned and operated his own auto body repair business before later working for Volkswagen as an auto transporter with Teamsters Local 326 at the Port of Wilmington and finally was an auto detailer for NuCar.
Growing up, he spent his summers on Ocracoke Island, NC, where life was slower and simpler, and time spent rocking on a porch was time well spent. He carried the island’s spirit and way of life with him throughout his years. He was a simple man who enjoyed woodworking, bird carving, playing a game of pool, watching reruns of old TV shows, and drinking an occasional beer (…or two). He was a man of few words who wasn’t one for fuss or fanfare.
Dennis is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Patricia A. (Scott) Gaskins; daughters, Kelly Waltz (Eric) and Stacie Gaskins; grandchildren, Brody and Beckett Waltz; and granddogs, Buddy, Ziggy, and Odie.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dennis’ memory to the American Heart Association- Delaware Chapter, 131 Continental Drive, Suite 407, Newark, DE 19713 or online by clicking here.
Joanne scott
Dennis was a wonderful brother in law who always kept a smile on my face and always very nice. His wife and two daughters are a gem, and as their grandchildren. This Irish family was always a family of love, respect and guidance and was always there for everyone. He will be missed dearly but will be always loved.🥰❤️
Pamela Hagerty
Very good friend and neighbor. Pat, Dennis and I had many good times together, I will miss yelling down to his work shop letting him know Bailey and I were in town
Colleen Gaskins Morgan
My condolences to the families. Sorry I didn’t get a chance to see him while he was alive. I didn’t know he lived here in Delaware.
Joe Schafferman
To the Gaskins family. My thoughts and prayers for you and your family. My name is Joe Schafferman I worked with Dennis at Volkswagen. He was a great man. Got to know him he was a hard worker. My thoughts and prayers. 😢
Janina A. Churchwell
Dennis, though a man of few words, was always very warm and welcoming and always greeted me with big hugs when I visited during my college years. He took me and Kelly for one of our first legal drinks at a local bar :) He gave me an old leather blazer of his when I was going through a phase of wearing vintage clothing. He probably would have given someone the shirt off his back. Just an all-around nice guy. He will be dearly missed.
Essie burke
Pat I am so sorry to hear that Dennis has passed away. This was such a shock. I pray that u r doing all right.
Tony Sianni
So sad to see this. We had fond memories of his 64 Mustang and good times in school – Richardson Park and Conrad. Will be greatly missed.
Johann Chieffi
Patty,and family I am so very sorry for your loss. Prayers for your strength at this time.
Christine E Boyer
So sorry for your loss.
Let me know if I can do anything for you.
Judy and Don Frank
Pat and Family, We are so sorry to see about Denny’s passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May all your memories bring you comfort. Judy and Don
Glenn Jones
Patty and family, we are so sorry to hear this terrible news. Dennis was a fun loving man who will be surely missed but his warm smile will be remembered. Wishing you strength to get through this difficult time. Glenn & Keith
Phyllis Neviaser
Omg I can’t believe you are gone. I feel like we grew up together with visits to Wilmington and Philadelphia when we were kids. Then seeing each other in Ocracoke in the summer and whatever holidays we could manage. Playing “cops and robbers” or “cowboys and Indians” in the basement at home. Mom and Daddy were great friends of Bunny and John so we were together whenever we could be. They were Ocracokers displaced up north and sticking together when they could. We all loved each other so much and treasured the time we had together. As teenagers on Ocracoke – riding mopeds together with our friends, going to the movies at the coast guard station and dances at the dance hall. It looks like you had a great life my friend and a great family. I am so sorry for your loss Patty, and family. Rest in peace my friend with love always.
mark ganc
Sorry to hear of
Zen Ragan
Many fond memories, good times as neighbors in Newport Heights. So sorry for your loss.
Essie butke
I am so very sorry for ur loss Pat.