Gerald Richard

ALDOUANE, NB – It is with profound sadness that the family announces the sudden passing of Gerald Richard 61, formerly of Rexton, on Sunday, May 14, 2023.  Born in Bouctouche, NB he was the son of Alfred Richard and Lea (Chevarie) Richard. 

Gerald was known more for his actions than his words, leading a true Christian life.  He spread his talents everywhere and so very many of us are left with not just memories but tangible results of Gerald’s workmanship and kindness.  

Gerald was always a doer whether going to fetch the family boat at the age of seven or skiing along behind it.  A natural athlete, there was no sport that Gerald wouldn’t attempt and excel at.   Many of us can still see him running up and down the court at BLMS.  His children and grand children marvelled at this natural ability to pick up any sport with ease. But mostly they knew Dad/Grampy could be called upon at any time and he would drop everything to fulfill their wishes.  

Gerald’s athletic ability combined with his naturally inquisitive mind, allowed him to create and fix things architectural, mechanical, and practical.  He used these incredible skills and his natural generosity to help anyone and everyone.  If not the direct recipient, you know someone whose life was made better by the gift of Gerald’s talents.  Most times he knew what needed to be fixed before you did and usually had it put right without your knowledge.  This made Gerald a valued and indispensable member of the educational community.  Gerald cherished, and will be cherished, by this community forever.  

Gerald took a very active role in the lives of his children, grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.  He was a patient and effective coach in all seasonal sports.  For example, when towing skiers behind the boat, Gerald never deserted those who needed an extra tow and encouragement, staying on the water for hours. Gerald’s skills and confidence inspired everyone to go beyond their comfort level to achieve things they thought impossible.  

Gerald enjoyed his travels, sharing his generosity wherever he went . He often gifted the less fortunate, giving away the shoes off his feet to a server in need and the hat off his head to a little boy.  But his favourite place was home. Some of Gerald’s passions included, but were not limited to: water skiing, snowmobiling, motor cycling, Alpine skiing, lending a helping hand and especially playing with his grandchildren.  

Gerald will be forever missed by his loving wife of 41 years, Virginia "Ginny"  (Hudson) Richard of Aldouane; one daughter, Sarah Orr (Dave) of Vernon, BC; one son, Jonathan Richard (Ricki-Lee) of Ottawa; five grandchildren, Addison, Payton, Ruby, Arlo and Lexi. Gerald became a father at an early age but took the responsibility of parenthood very seriously, at the age of 17 he was a mature and seemingly experienced dad.  Everything Gerald did was for his family. 

Gerald is also survived by four sisters, Claudette Robichaud (Ron), Dianne Ferris (Richard), Rita Doucet (Ronald) all of Aldouane, Lisa Babineau (Dean) of Rexton; one brother, Maurice Richard (Marguerite) of Aldouane; his beloved mother-in-law Catherine Ann Hudson of Galloway; four sisters-in-law, Joanne Turner (Jim) of Richibucto, Paula Vautour (Aris) of Galloway, Betty Comeau (Valery) of Richibucto, and Lisa Wilson (Mark) of West Branch; 4 brothers-in-law, Tom Hudson (Marie-Therese) of Galloway, Jack Hudson (Jean) of Prince William, Donny Hudson (Alice) of Moncton, and Terry Hudson (Barb) of Galloway and many nieces and nephews. 

Visitation will be held at Thompson’s Funeral Home in Richibucto on Saturday, May 20, 2023 from 2-4 & 7-9 pm, Sunday, May 21, 2023 from 2-4 & 7-9 pm (ONLY). 

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, May 22, 2023 at 2:00 pm at the Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church in Rexton. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gerald’s memory may be made to the Rexton Snowmobile Club #35 - e-transfers may be sent to [email protected]; or to Bonar Law Memorial School Sports Activities. 

Arrangements are in the professional care of Thompson’s Funeral Home in Richibucto, (523-4252).