DeLAND, FL — Community Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of Gabriel “Gabi” Patricia McCaskill
With hearts deeply broken and spirits heavy with grief, the DeLand community is united in sorrow following the tragic and unexpected passing of Gabriel Patricia McCaskill, affectionately known to many as “Gabi.” On June 25, 2025, the world lost a rare and radiant soul — someone whose presence lit up every room and whose impact will forever be etched into the lives of those who loved her.
Gabi’s passing has sent a shockwave of heartache through her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Known for her warmth, boundless compassion, and infectious laughter, she was the kind of person who made people feel seen, valued, and understood. Her absence has left an unfillable void in the DeLand community, where she was not only a beloved daughter, sister, and friend — but a beacon of hope, strength, and kindness.
Born and raised in DeLand, Gabi embodied the soul of the city — resilient, spirited, and full of life. Whether she was volunteering at local shelters, uplifting a friend in need, or simply offering a smile to a stranger, Gabi’s grace and empathy touched countless lives. Her friends often said that her greatest gift was her ability to listen — truly listen — and make people feel like they mattered.
“She had a heart bigger than this whole town,” said a close friend. “You never walked away from Gabi feeling alone. She had a way of making you feel like everything was going to be okay, even in your darkest hour.”
Gabi’s vibrant personality was matched only by her creative soul. A lover of music, art, and poetry, she often expressed herself through journals, canvas, and quiet melodies sung late at night under the stars. Her artistic talents were a reflection of her spirit — beautiful, raw, and deeply moving. She had dreams of making the world a better place through her creative voice and was well on her way to doing just that.
She is remembered not just for her light but for her resilience. Gabi faced challenges in her life with courage and dignity beyond her years. She lifted others even when she herself was tired. She gave even when she had little. And she loved fiercely, purely, and without condition.
In the wake of this devastating loss, tributes have poured in from all corners of the community. Social media has become a digital tapestry of memories — stories, photos, and heartfelt words from those who can’t quite believe she’s gone. From childhood friends to teachers, neighbors, and coworkers, each remembrance paints the portrait of a soul who was, and always will be, profoundly loved.
Gabi leaves behind a grieving family, including her parents, siblings, and a wide circle of relatives and close friends who cherished her deeply. Their heartbreak is unimaginable, but their love for her — and the love she gave in return — is stronger than even death itself.
A memorial service and candlelight vigil will be held in her honor later this week, where family, friends, and members of the community will gather to celebrate Gabi’s life, mourn her loss, and support one another through the pain. The service will include readings of Gabi’s own poetry and a slideshow of the joyful, love-filled life she led.
As DeLand moves forward, it does so with a collective ache — but also with a commitment to carrying Gabi’s legacy forward. In her name, friends are launching a scholarship fund for young women in the arts, hoping to inspire others the way Gabi inspired so many.
Though her time on Earth was far too short, Gabriel Patricia McCaskill’s light was immeasurable. Her spirit lives on in the lives she touched, the beauty she created, and the love she gave so freely.
Rest in peace, sweet Gabi. You will never be forgotten. You will forever be missed. And you will always be loved.