Gerard Faulkner

My Gerry,

Mere words could never convey how much you've meant to my heart for the past 40 years. You were the only friend I ever had whom didn't turn away from me in times of extreme sadness, worry, hunger, or need. You never said, "NO" if I asked for something...it was either an emphatic "YES" or you'd say, "You know I'll try my best hon", which typically turned into a "YES" later on. You were SO FUNNY in a quirky sort of way! Your students were crazy about you and did their best to make you proud. You'd impress upon them the importance of black youth appreciating the myriad opportunities they'd been given, due to the sacrifices made during the Civil Rights Movement. You wanted them to dream of MORE in life, and to attain that goal through receiving multiple degrees...or at least ONE. I remember that West Side Story was your favorite musical; and I'd laugh as you danced around the living room singing, We Are The Jets! You adored your mother, and even left the profession you cherished as an educator in order to take care of her until she died while at home with you. You were a WONDERFUL and KIND man. I will love you and miss you for the remainder of my life. I wish you were still here Gerry...perhaps you are! Sleep well my sweet friend.  

 

XXOO

Myra