David M. Kearns

David M. Kearns, 78, of Gorham passed away peacefully at Gosnell Memorial House in Scarborough on June 5 surrounded by loved ones after a brief illness. A dedicated law enforcement officer, loving husband, father, and cherished friend, he leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service and unwavering devotion to his family. Born on August 4,1946 in Portland, ME, he was the son of William F. Kearns, Sr., and Anna E. McDonough. David grew up in Portland and graduated from Portland High School. He began his distinguished career in law enforcement in 1970, attending the first Maine Criminal Justice Academy at Camp Keys in Augusta as an employee of Portland Police Department. David would leave Portland and be hired by Gorham Police Department on April 1, 1971. Over the course of his 40-year tenure with Gorham Police, he served with distinction in various roles, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and the community alike. His commitment to justice and public safety was matched only by his compassion and dedication to those he served. Beyond his professional accomplishments, David was a devoted husband to his beloved wife Liz, whom he married in 1972. Their partnership was a testament to enduring love and mutual respect. They had been married for 46 years at the time of her death in 2018. Together, they built a life filled with shared dreams, love, laughter, and unshakeable resolve for one another. Their greatest love, affection and accomplishment were their three daughters Amy, Jennifer, and Courtney. David was a volunteer of the Gorham Fire and Rescue departments, a member of the Gorham chapter of Lion’s Club, and participated in the Knights of Columbus. He was an avid Boston sports fan, specifically the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots. He enjoyed Friday night dinners with his family and looked forward to traveling with his wife Liz and their best friends, Darlene and Gordon Junkins. There was an unspoken rule among those closest to David; prior to purchasing any tool of any type, check with him first. It was highly likely that he had the tool already in his possession, he may have even had multiples! David was predeceased by his wife of 46 years, Elizabeth Kearns, parents William F. Kearns, Sr. and Anna McDonough, his brother William F. Kearns, Jr., sisters Jacqueline Ashford and Kathleen Stewart, and granddaughter Lydia Beaucage. He is survived by daughter Amy Kearns and David Putnam Jr. of Biddeford, daughter Jennifer Beaucage and husband Leo of Gorham, and daughter Courtney Fairbanks and husband Jesse of South Portland. Grandchildren Jacob, Cameron, Kaileigh, Samuel, and Patrick. Sister Christine Cook of Scarborough. Devoted friend and neighbor Darlene Junkins, as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, great nieces, and great nephews. Visiting hours will be held on Saturday, June 21 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Windham Chapel of Dolby, Blais & Segee 434 River Rd., Windham. A memorial service will be held Sunday, June 22 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be immediately following at Eastern Cemetery located at 227 Main St., Gorham. The family will be hosting a celebration of life gathering following the burial at Wassamki Springs Campground, 56 Saco St., Scarborough and encourage all to attend if they wish.

David M. Kearns

August 4, 1946 - June 5, 2025

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