Gregory Angelo Bavonese

Gregory Angelo Bavonese,Jr., 65 years of age, passed away unexpectedly at home on June 12, 2024. Gregory is survived by his loving wife, Dr. Janet L. Bavonese of Anniston; his daughter Amanda Ackerman and Son-in- Love Corey Ackerman of Auckland New Zealand; his parents, Gregory Sr. and Evelyn Bavonese of Phoenix Az; and his sister, Donna Richstone (Mitch) of San Mateo CA, He is also survived by his Mother-in-Love, Gail Tidwell of Anniston; Sister-in-Love Joni Magouirk of Anniston; and Kimberly Nix (Keith) of Richmond VA. Gregory is also survived by many nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly.

Gregory served as a City of Miami Police Officer and retired with the rank of Sergeant. He was beloved in the MPD and admired for his courage and compassion on the street. Gregory had many stories about his time as a police officer and would talk to anyone about all of his experiences. Along the way, he acquired many nicknames, but the most famous one was " RoboCop" as he was called by many of his Miami friends. He appeared on several television shows, most notably on the reality series COPS, where he showed the real strength of positive interactions in neighborhood policing.

Gregory also loved New York Yankees baseball and was the biggest Yankee fan. He watched every game with interest and knew all the stats and players. He famously cheered for baseball season at the end of every football season, delighting in the onset of spring training. He also loved to travel and took many interesting trips with his wife, Janet. Together they explored around the world, trying new cuisines, visiting museums, and experiencing the best of life. Gregory also loved his pets and made no secret of how much he loved spoiling them throughout the years.

Gregory was Catholic and valued his faith, often telling tales of his Catholic School years in West Milford NJ. He and his wife Janet were parishioners at Sacred Heart Church in Anniston. Gregory served the church in many ways and genuinely cared for its people. He was proud to be of the Knights of church in many ways and genuinely cared for its people. He was proud to be part of the Knights of Columbus where he served as a Fourth Degree Knight. Gregory also served as an usher and enjoyed helping everyone during Mass.

Gregory leaves behind a legacy of Love. He will be celebrated in two ways, once in Phoenix Az at a mass and celebration of life with his parents and other loved ones and friends in early July, and again in Anniston at Sacred Heart Church on July 24, 2024. Visitation will be at 11:00 AM, With Mass at noon, followed by refreshments in the parish life center. In lieu of flowers, Janet requests that donations in Gregory's name be directed to Sacred Heart Life Church Building Fund, Give (parishsoft.com).