Aiken, SC – Gino Mattucci, 60, passed away at his home in Aiken, S.C., on Aug. 25, 2026.
Gino was born on Oct. 9, 1965, at Syosset Hospital on Long Island, N.Y. He graduated from Hicksville High School in 1983 and went on to study accounting at Nassau Community College. But as anyone who knew Gino would understand, his heart was never really meant to follow a traditional path. His love of animals, and especially horses, was simply part of who he was. It was in his blood.
Gino followed in his father’s footsteps, finding his calling in caring for and training horses. In 1989, he began his career in Gainesville, Fla., at the University of Florida School of Veterinary Medicine, where he worked as a veterinary technician. At the same time, he continued working alongside his father at the family farm in Bell, Fla.
Gino was fortunate to grow up surrounded by a family who understood his passion. His mother’s family was also deeply involved in the horse training and racing business, and he had a long line of uncles and cousins who helped mentor, teach, and guide him. Those relationships, along with his connection with animals, shaped the life and career he loved.
Gino spent many years at the University of Florida, working there from 1989 until 2015. After retiring from the University, he continued doing what came naturally to him, working for PHD Veterinary Services in Newberry, Fla. There, he spent many years alongside his good friend, Dr. Porter, continuing to care for the animals and people who had become such an important part of his life.
In 2025, Gino made the difficult decision to retire and move north to be closer to his family. He settled in Aiken, S.C. To no one’s surprise, he soon found himself working for a private farm, once again caring for horses.
Gino was kind, funny, hardworking and always willing to help. If someone needed him, he was there – without hesitation and without expecting anything in return. He had a quiet, humble way about him. And those who knew him well knew his infectious sense of humor. He could make a room double over with laughter.
His love of horses was one of the greatest threads running through his life, but it was certainly not his only passion. Gino loved the Islanders, the Mets, music, movies and sports. And then there were the lighthouses – a fascination that became one of his own special adventures. He traveled near and far to find them, photograph them and add another one to his collection of memories.
Those who knew Gino will remember the way he cared for animals with a calmness and gentleness that came so naturally to him. They will remember his willingness to share his knowledge, his stories, his passions. Most of all he will be remembered for the love he had for his family and friends. He may not have always been the loudest voice in the room, but his presence mattered. His kindness mattered. The animals he cared for mattered to him, and so did the people fortunate enough to know him.
Gino leaves behind his mother, Wilma Mattucci; his two sisters, Rose Marie Alt and Nada Jean Kerstein; his nieces and nephews, Lindsay, Nikki (spouse-Ben), Derek (spouse-Melissa), Chris and Mike; his great nieces, Marley Rose, and Penelope Rainn; and ex-wife and friend, Lauri Mattucci.
A Memorial Service celebrating Gino’s life will be held on Oct. 30, 2026, 5-8 p.m., at PHD Veterinary Services, 47 SW 165th St., Newberry, FL 32669.