Grieving family thanks community for support

Published 9:09 am Friday, July 24, 2009

We, the family of Sgt. Gary Falls, would like to extend our great appreciation to the many people who have blessed us with their kindness and thoughtfulness during the past few months. We are very thankful to have had the tremendous support of the Franklin Police Department staff, Sentara Heart and Vascular surgical staff, Eastern Virginia Medical School and the River Pavilion staff and friends during Gary’s hospitalization and through the final days of his life.

We would also like to thank those who expressed their condolences and thoughtfulness during our time of sorrow following his passing. We were comforted by your beautiful flowers, thoughtful cards, delicious food and kind visits. It has been a difficult time, and we are grateful to have had such wonderful people to provide comfort and emotional support.

We were touched by the memorial services for Gary. Gary’s brother police officers did an excellent job, and it means so much to have him honored and remembered in such a service. We would also like to thank those who made memorial donations to the Trooper Robert Hill Toy Drive.

We are grateful to businesses, media and citizens who made possible, the staff of Franklin Police Department and participants of the memorial motorcycle ride and barbecue. We feel fortunate to have such support and generosity.

We would like to say a special thank you to Chief Phil Hardison, Roy Richards (known to most of us as Uncle Roy), the Rev. Keith Rose, the City of Franklin Police Department officers and staff, the Virginia State Police, friends, other law enforcement departments, The Tidewater News, Channel 13 news, and members of the community for their kindness.

Chyerl March Falls and family

Holland