Richard Gere is mourning the loss of his father, Homer, who died earlier this month at the age of 100.
According to reports, Homer Gere, a long-time community volunteer in North Syracuse, passed away on Wednesday, March 1 in Downstate New York.
By all accounts, Homer was incredibly involved in his son’s life and inspired him to strive for greatness prior to a career that would see Richard climb up to the dazzling heights at the summit of the entertainment industry.
Homer’s passing was confirmed by Richard’s wife, Alejandra, on March 4, when she took to Instagram to share the story of his life.
Her post began: “Homer George Gere, a community activist in North Syracuse, has died in North Salem, New York. He was 100 years old at the time of his death on March 1, 2023. A successful insurance agent until his retirement at the age of 65, Gere was known in the community as a gifted entrepreneur and was awarded for his work as a volunteer for North Area Meals on Wheels. As a supporter of that non-profit organization, he was featured in national advertisements alongside his son Richard Gere.“
Though Richard has not yet commented publicly on his father’s death, one can only assume that he is reeling with grief. The Pretty Woman star regularly talked about his father’s support in interviews and previously labeled Homer his “hero”.
Indeed, only months ago did Richard and other loved ones gather at a restaurant to celebrate Homer turning 100 years old.
The birthday party was held in May 2022 at Pastabilities, one of the oldest restaurants in Armory Square, New York.
The restaurant posted a picture after the party had concluded, along with the caption: “Richard Gere came into Pasta’s tonight to celebrate his father’s 100th birthday.”
As per reports, Homer had a huge influence on Richard’s life, so much so that the award-winning actor named his son Homer too.
Aged 73 himself, Richard Gere recently underwent something of a health scare while vacationing in Mexico with his family; his wife Alejandra Silva and their two children.
The actor is said to have caught the flu while he was on the vacation. It was later revealed that The American Gigolo actor already had a cough but that it had worsened in Mexico. The aggravated coughing led him to go to a hospital where he was diagnosed with pneumonia. The actor stayed in the hospital overnight in order to be monitored but was released the following day.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Richard Gere and his family at this tough time. Losing a loved one is never easy, regardless of their age, so we hope the blow can be lessened by happy memories of the past.
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