Gerald Richard Obituary

To the father that was with me when mine was on the road, I'll always love you and we will all be together again soon.

My condolences to the family. Mr. Richard will be missed.



Earl F. Biggs

class of 1966

Dear Richards Family,

The Wilson family would like to express our sincere condolences to you at this time. G was a positive influence in the lives of many young people at Harlan over the years. Being one of his "roses" in the Track Cheer Club will always bring back good memories of your father and the friendships that I made in high school. To Jerry, Lazette and the rest of the Richards family, remember to keep the faith. God never gives us more than we can handle.



Pamela Y. Wilson Class of 1973

Thank you so much!! Mr. Richards you changed my life back in High School (Harlan). I will never forget you..... May GOD bless your family.....



Sherrie Tyler

Harlan Class of '83

To the family:

It was wonderful to see each of you today, at the Celebration of life for your father. G.R, was such a great mentor. He was such a positive influence on my life as well as others. His strict discipline, guidance, and unfaltering faith in each of us, motivated each of us to succeed in life. Whatever aspirations we had in life, he told us that we could be better than that. It has been 37 years since I met the coach, but it seems like yesterday. Although, I never was on the track team, as a key member of the track cheer club he made me feel I was just as important. In 1967, when Harlan won the state championship, G.R. insisted I accept the trophy as track queen. Women, were not allowed on the field in 1967, but G.R. insisted I accept. They refused to allow me to accept the trophy, so G.R. refused the trophy. After much fanfare, they decided to allow me to accept it. How many coaches would have done that? This has become a lasting memory for me. I will always be grateful for his love, courage, faith, determination, persistance and drive. It propelled us to greatness! Thank you for sharing him with us.



Love, Gwynne

To the Richard Family,



My prayers and those of my family are with you at this difficult time. May your faith and support from family and friends bring you peace in the days ahead.

The Harlan family has truly been diminished by the loss of Mr. Richards. A leader, guide, mentor, educator, coach, counselor and friend, countless alumni have been blessed and inspired by his commitment to African American youth. Deepest condolences to the Richards family.



Hon. Michael Brown

Class of 1972

I was very saddened to read of Mr. Richards death. He influenced many of us from the Harlan family. May God sustain you through your time of sorrow.

IVORY E. WRIGHT

Harlan Class of 1972

Dear Family,

My prayers and thoughts are with you.



Dearest Coach,



Thank you for the countless hours you spent with me on the track and thank you for instilling in me the value of "practice makes perfect and perfect practice makes perfect!"



Rochelle

On behalf of the Chicago Public Schools, we offer our condolences to the family of Gerald Richard. We shall always remember and appreciate his commitment and dedication to the sport of track and field and the countless number of students that benefitted from his guidance and expertise.

To the Richard's family



Mr. Richard will be missed by many. However, keep in mind that he helped to raise many of us Harlanites over the years. We love him and you and your family will remain in our prayers. May God continue to Bless and Keep you and may God help you through these dark days.



Jeanette Glenn Erwin

The Bryant Family sends heartfelt condolences on the passing of your loved one and our friend and teacher. May God's love draw you close and give you peace.

coach you were the greatest leader a team could have. You taught me everything. T HE DISCIPINE YOU PUT IN ME, STILL CARRIES ME THROUGH LIFE. GOD BLESS YOU.

BIG GEORGE