Family donate bookcase in memory of son

The family of Richard John Gautry, right, presented the bookcase to Red Laithes Court in Ravensthorpe in appreciation of the care they gave to their son.

Michael and Lorraine Gautry, of Barker Street, said Richard, who was disabled, loved books and a bookcase would be a fitting way for the centre’s staff and clients to remember him.

Mrs Gautry said: “We lost Richard on November 24, he was just 27 years-old.

“At his funeral service we asked for donations in lieu of flowers. Richard had been going to Red Laithes four days a week for just over three years and really loved it, so we asked the staff what they wanted and they suggested the bookcase.”

Richard attended Fairfield School in Heckmondwike from the age of three and a half until he was 19, then went to Huddersfield College before going to Red Laithes for day care.

“The staff were fantastic with him, he loved being taken out on walks, going on the trampoline and lying on the bean bags,” said Lorraine. “They thought so much about him. He couldn’t talk, but would let people know what he wanted in his own way. His eyes used to say it all and his face could light up a room.

“He loved looking at books, and so we’ve also donated some of his own books to the centre for something to remember him by.

“We’d just like to thank the Red Laithes staff for all the care and love they gave to Richard.”