Assist Gail with Expenses After Richard's Loss

This is Nancy, Gail and Richard Hardy’s church sister, and the wife of their pastor, Pastor Chris from Utica City Church.

I have been blessed to know Richard and Gail for 5 years and they have become dear friends. Richard was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma last year and was mid treatment and expected to have a successful remission, however – he unexpectedly took a turn and passed away last week. So, I am starting this page to help Gail with funeral and large medical expenses. Because Richard was unique in so many ways. Both blind and deaf, Richard and his precious wife Gail have touched the lives of so many people, and because Gail – who also is blind and requires hearing aids, will need help.

Richard lived in Utica for 40 years and knew and was loved by many people. He participated in many organizations to help others, including the Lions Club, and has worked all this time at Cabvi. He loved challenging his disabilities even having taken up bowling and water skiing, as well as playing the tambourine with the church worship team at Utica City Church.

Always loving and joyful. Richard never had a mean word for anyone, but instead was always ready with a word of encouragement. But for the time being, Richard leaves his bride of 29 years, Gail, here. She will need help. As you could imagine, Richard and Gail are not wealthy money-wise.

He had no life insurance. Funeral costs are going to be around $7,000 as far as we know. There are many medical expenses from 10 months of cancer treatment and multiple hospital visits and surgeries. Richard had just taken out a $8,000 loan for the first months of care, but more will be coming, as they have not been able to receive any assistance and are responsible for all co-pays and several of the cancer treatments were not covered by insurance at all.

At this time, I am seeking to raise funds to cover funeral expenses, medical bills, and possible living expenses as they just learned of a rent price increase, and Gail may need to move.

If you’re unable to donate, sharing this message would mean just as much to us. I am deeply grateful for your support during this time of grieving. Gail is the beneficiary, and all funds go straight to her bank account!