Assembly Resolution No. 197
BY: M. of A. Fall
CELEBRATING the life of Eric Eugene Garvin,
devoted humanitarian, attorney, community leader and
renowned social justice advocate
WHEREAS, There are certain outstanding members of our community who,
through their selfless commitment and dedication, have served to better
the quality of life in our community and have had a measurable positive
impact on the lives of its residents; Eric Garvin was one such
individual; and
WHEREAS, It is with profound sorrow and deep regret that this
Legislative Body records the passing of Eric Garvin, affectionately
known as Gene, noting the significance of his purposeful life and
accomplishments; and
WHEREAS, Eric Garvin of Staten Island, New York, died tragically
while traveling abroad in Chile; he was 38 years old; and
WHEREAS, Eric Garvin graduated from Westlake High School in Waldorf,
Maryland in 2002, before earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 2006
from Mercer University, where he pledged the Theta Pi Chapter of Kappa
Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.; and
WHEREAS, Upon the completion of his undergraduate studies, Eric
Garvin continued his education at the University of Maryland Law School
where, as a result of his exceptional debating skills, he was selected
as a distinguished member of the University's Moot Court team; and
WHEREAS, After earning his Law degree in 2010, Eric Garvin began his
illustrious career working for former Councilwoman Debi Rose in New York
City's Community Engagement Unit; he then transitioned to the Office of
Criminal Justice under former Mayor Bill de Blasio; and
WHEREAS, In first assignment in the Mayor's office, this
extraordinary man worked to reduce violent crime in neighborhoods
throughout New York City; while assigned to the Brownsville neighborhood
in Brooklyn, New York, he worked tirelessly with local Gang leaders to
bring about peace; and
WHEREAS, A vital part of the anti-violence movement of New York
City, Eric Garvin went on to also become a vocal critic of the
incarcerated individuals' conditions at Rikers Island, where he worked
diligently to help prisoners transition back into society; and
WHEREAS, With a passion for exploring as much of the world as
possible, Eric Garvin was constantly on the move, traveling to more than
40 countries; he also enjoyed fishing and photography in his free time,
and had become an avid fisherman, often sending his mom and sister his
ugliest catches via pictures and videos; and
WHEREAS, One of Eric Garvin's proudest moments was the creation and
patent of his PURE REUP agency, which focuses on entrepreneurship and
education; under his able leadership, the agency sought out ways to
encourage young people to pursue their passions, despite being impacted
by racism, violence, poverty, and other forms of social decay; and
WHEREAS, Inspired by his beloved parents, Eric Sr. and Anna Marie,
and his sister, Naomi, as well as his grandmothers, Marjorie Garvin and
Mary Joseph, this truly remarkable man spent his life helping the
underserved and fought extensively against injustice; his radiant soul
and ceaseless dedication to public service has inspired countless
individuals to uplift and protect others in his name; and
WHEREAS, A young man of potential and promise, Eric Garvin had a big
warm smile that exuded confidence and competence with a work ethic to
match; the passion he had for social and criminal justice issues drove
him to fiercely advocate for those whom society often overlooked, cast
aside, ignored, or persecuted because he believed in their intrinsic
value and need for opportunities and second chances; and
WHEREAS, Eric Garvin was loving, kind, smart, articulate, and
driven; he was a humble leader who made a lasting difference in any
arena he chose; it is heartbreaking that his bright light was
extinguished by the very cycle of violence he fought so hard to
eradicate; and
WHEREAS, Eric Garvin's infinite selflessness and benevolence will
shine on through his family's vivid and happy memories; his insight and
strength will forever serve as a beacon of love, light and hope to the
countless lives he touched; and
WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Eric Garvin leaves behind a legacy which will long endure
the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all who
were privileged to have known and loved such an amazing man; he will be
deeply missed and truly merits the grateful tribute of this Legislative
Body; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Eric Eugene Garvin, and to express its deepest
condolences to his family; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Eric Eugene Garvin.
