DeLand Mourns the Sudden Loss of Gabriel “Gabi” McCaskill, a Beloved Educator and Beacon of Compassion
DeLAND, FL — With hearts deeply broken and spirits heavy with grief, the DeLand community gathers in mourning to remember and honor the life of Gabriel Patricia McCaskill, affectionately known as Gabi. On June 25, 2025, the world lost a rare and radiant soul in a tragic and unexpected moment.
Only 29 years old, Gabi’s sudden passing has left an indescribable void in the lives of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Though her time on earth was far too short, Gabi’s light burned brightly — a beacon of kindness, compassion, and boundless joy that touched countless hearts throughout her life.
Born and raised in DeLand, Florida, Gabi was known from an early age for her vivacious spirit and nurturing heart. She was the kind of person who could make friends in an instant, someone who remembered your favorite song, brought food when you were sick, and checked in on you just to make sure you were okay. Her laughter was infectious, her hugs were healing, and her loyalty was unwavering.
A proud graduate of DeLand High School, Gabi was actively involved in cheerleading, student government, and numerous volunteer efforts that reflected her deep commitment to community. After graduation, she pursued a degree in early childhood education, inspired by a lifelong dream to help shape young minds and provide children with the love and guidance she believed every child deserves.
For the past several years, Gabi worked as a preschool teacher at a local learning center, where she was adored by students, parents, and colleagues alike. “Miss Gabi was magic,” said one parent through tears. “My daughter couldn’t wait to see her every morning. She made every child feel special, safe, and seen.”
In addition to her career in education, Gabi was also a passionate advocate for mental health awareness. Having faced her own battles, she spoke openly about the importance of healing, support, and breaking the stigma that surrounds mental wellness. She often hosted small community events and online forums, offering words of encouragement and support to those who needed them most.
Her compassion extended to animals as well — Gabi volunteered regularly at the local animal shelter and was known to foster dogs and cats whenever she could. She had an unmatched tenderness for all living beings and lived her life by the motto: “Love first, always.”
The circumstances surrounding Gabi’s passing have not been made public by the family, who have asked for privacy as they navigate this devastating loss. What is clear, however, is the profound impact she had on her community, and the deep sorrow felt by so many in the wake of her departure.
In a statement shared by the McCaskill family, they wrote:
“Gabi was our sun — warm, bright, and irreplaceable. We are shattered by her loss but comforted by the outpouring of love from everyone who knew her. We ask that you remember her not for the tragedy of her death, but for the brilliance of her life.”
A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Saturday evening at Earl Brown Park, where friends, former students, family members, and neighbors will gather to celebrate her life and legacy. Attendees are encouraged to wear bright colors — “Gabi colors,” as her best friend described them — in honor of her vibrant personality.
The family has also established the Gabi McCaskill Memorial Fund, which will support causes dear to her heart, including children’s education, animal rescue, and mental health programs for youth.
As DeLand grieves, one thing remains certain: Gabi’s light, though gone from this world, continues to shine in the lives she touched, the lessons she taught, and the love she gave so freely.
“She gave us hope,” said a colleague. “And now it’s up to us to carry that forward.