SCSU Track & Field Athlete Gabriel Toppin “Gabe” Toppin’s Death Shakes the SCSU Community and Everyone Who Knew Him
His passion for track and field, academics, and community service highlighted a life full of promise.
January 2, 2026
This article was last updated by aditibhatta on January 2, 2026
Gabriel Toppin, affectionately known as Gabe, passed away too soon at the age of 19 on December 28, 2026.
Born in New Haven, Connecticut, on October 15, 2006, Gabe was the beloved son of Michael and Patricia Toppin and devoted brother of Michael Toppin Jr.
A graduate of Lyman Hall High School in Wallingford, Connecticut, Gabe was pursuing a degree in business administration at Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) with interests in law and economics.
A dedicated student-athlete, he competed on the SCSU track and field team in shot put and discus events.
Beyond academics and athletics, Gabe worked as wait staff at Masonic Care Assisted Living Facility and had recently begun coaching the track and field team at his alma mater, Lyman Hall High School.
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Gabe brought energy, humor, and kindness to every environment he entered.
Friends and teammates recall his quick wit, contagious laughter, and uplifting personality that made even the toughest practices or dining hall meals enjoyable.
Known for his strong work ethic, lighthearted nature, and ability to embrace challenges, Gabe inspired those around him with his positivity and determination.
SCSU Track & Field Head Coach John Wallin remembered Gabe as
“an outstanding teammate, dedicated to his personal growth as well as helping his teammates succeed. Gabe’s future was very bright, and he had the potential to reach his goals. Our team will honor his memory and celebrate his life at Southern Connecticut.”
In addition to his parents and brother, Gabe is survived by his grandfather, Wilfred Facey; grandmothers Iceneth Lindsay and Wendy Toppin; uncles Wilfred Facey Jr., Andrew Facey, Anthony Worrell, and Steven Worrell; aunt Georgina Bramwell; and a loving network of cousins, extended family members, friends, teammates, and coaches.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at B.C. Bailey Funeral Home, 273 South Elm Street, Wallingford, Connecticut. Gabe’s funeral service will immediately follow at 10:30 a.m., with burial at In Memoriam Cemetery, 18 Maplewood Avenue, Wallingford.
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Gabe’s family, friends, and the larger community continue to feel the depth of his loss.
To support the family during this difficult time, a fundraiser has been established to assist with funeral expenses and other needs.
Gabe’s impact on everyone who knew him—from his family and close friends to his teammates and students—ensures that his memory will live on.
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