John S. Gittins of Brookline, Bedford and North Brookfield, died on October 22, 2021, at the age of 81, from complications of pneumonia.

He is survived by Julie, his loving wife of 55 years, his wonderful son, Chris and daughter-in-law Stacy, beloved grandchildren, Isabel and Henry, steadfast sister-in-law, Jayne Howard and her family, and many, many cousins in the US and Canada.  He is predeceased by his parents, Jack and Margaret Gittins, also of Bedford, MA.

John loved fly fishing, coffee and good conversation.  He loved making and looking at art.  He loved the challenges and engagement with others in computer systems analysis and in teaching psychology.   He loved the physicality and camaraderie of playing football and being a paratrooper (82 ^nd Airborne).   He loved talking with friends, and, especially, he loved spending time with his family.   He found them wonderful to be around and valued their accomplishments.  He loved talking with them and listening to them.  He loved hearing and telling stories about them.  They will miss his warmth, his humor, and his ability to put his finger on the meaning of things so clearly.

John's most valued career was that of art.  He loved the challenges and the results of creating paintings, photographs and prints.  He valued the many friends and supporters he found in the art world and the travel and engagement in shows in the USA and abroad.  His paintings are in numerous museum collections, including the National Museum in Prague, the Fort Lauderdale Museum, and the Flint Institute of Art.

Calling hours will be held at the Bedford Funeral Home, 167 Great Rd., Bedford, on Thursday, October 28, from 4:00-7:00 PM. Burial will be private.

Donations may be made to the Greater Springfield (MA) Habitat for Humanity , 268 Cold Spring Ave, West Springfield, MA 01809 or to any charity working to stop climate change.