Olin Gaines, Jr.

Gaines, Jr., 76 of Apopka, Florida, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 19, 2025 with his family by his side. Born and raised in Hartford, Connecticut, Olin was the cherished son of Olin Gaines, Sr., and Katie Patrick Gaines. Affectionately known by many as “JB” or “Junie Boy”, he grew up in the Bellevue Square neighborhood, an environment that deeply shaped his character and spirit. In 1994, Olin relocated to Florida, where he continued to make lasting connections and memories. Prior to that move, he worked for the State of Connecticut as a Civil Engineer until 1982, when he won his case against the state on the basis of racial discrimination. That courageous victory would go on to inspire his 2017 autobiography, Colored Boy, in which he shared his life story in an authentic and inspiring way. He became passionate about real estate, building a sizable portfolio of properties, a pursuit he loved for nearly 40 years after his career with the State of Connecticut. He was known for his naturally comedic spirit and generous heart. Known for his loving, uplifting, and animated personality, he always had a funny story to tell. He brought joy and laughter to everyone around him. He loved to travel, shop, enjoy food, and most of all, spend time with his family. His kind heart and infectious nature will be deeply remembered and missed. He was preceded in death by his parents, father, Olin Gaines, Sr., and mother, Katie Patrick Gaines; brother, Marshall Gaines; brother-in-law, Oliver Williams; and nephew, Todd Wilson. Olin was a loyal friend to many and is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Ruth Constance Kimber Gaines; his sons: Michael Gaines (Iris) of Newton, Massachusetts, Tyrone Kimber (Gina) of Windsor, Connecticut, Derrick Kimber (Meghan) of Winter Park, Florida, Jamahl Hosendove of Hart- ford, Connecticut, and Darren Kimber (Antoinette Lewis) of Apopka, Florida; his three sisters: Mae Williams of Leesburg, Florida, Katherine Gaines of Hartford, Connecticut, and Dorothy Wilson of Hartford, Connecticut; four grandchildren: Christian Gaines of Newton, Massachusetts, Sebastian Gaines of Newton, Massachusetts, Tyrell Kimber of Windsor,

Tributes

Olin Gaines, Jr.

December 25, 1948 - May 19, 2025