Alan J. Gaines

Alan J. Gaines, 82, of Portsmouth, RI, passed away on November 10, 2024. He was the husband of the late Amy Louise (Boocock) Gaines and the father of Lee V. Gaines.

Born in New York City, Alan was the son of Charles and Rosalyn (Knecht) Ginsburg. For more than 40 years, Alan and Amy operated A&A Gaines Antiques, earning a reputation as prominent and respected antique dealers throughout New England. Before becoming an antique dealer, Alan was an etching artist whose work was commissioned by major corporations, including the Franklin Mint and American Express Co.

Alan possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of history and the keen eye of a master collector. He was also a talented craftsman who restored antique firearms, watches and clocks with precision and care.

A devoted husband, Alan shared a profound and enduring love with Amy, who was the center of his world. He was also an immensely supportive father who delighted in his daughter's interests and accomplishments. Additionally, Alan was a loving father-in-law, brother-in-law, uncle and a great friend to many. He had a special affection for animals, especially cats, and throughout his life, he cared for many feline companions.

Known for his brilliant mind, Alan was a storyteller at heart. He delighted in sharing jokes, engaging in lively discussions about history, politics, and current events, and learning from everyone around him.

In addition to his wife, Alan was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Harry David Boocock.

Alan is survived by his daughter; Lee V. Gaines and her husband Alex Kime, his sisters-in-law; Janet Cooper and husband Walter, of Jamestown, RI, and Ridley Boocock, of Kingston, RI, nieces Sarah Cunningham of St. Louis, Mo. and Elizabeth Dobkowski of Beverly, Mass., and nephew Jacob Cooper of Minneapolis, Minn.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the MPN Research Foundation in Alan's memory.