Richard Gere mourns loss of his 'hero' father Homer Gere who died months after celebrating 100th birthday
NORTH SALEM, NEW YORK: Richard Gere is mourning the loss of his father Homer Gere, a "community activist," who reportedly died on Wednesday, March 1, at the age of 100 in North Salem, New York. The 73-year-old was profoundly inspired by his father who was incredibly involved in his son's life. It was his wife, Alejandra Silva, 40, who announced the death of the long-time community volunteer in North Syracuse, on her Instagram on Sunday, March 5.
Silva shared a photo of Homer holding a picture of a young woman as she wrote a lengthy caption acknowledging his life story. Gere, on the other hand, has yet to comment on his father's death. However, it is certain that he is reeling with grief. The 'Pretty Woman' actor has always been outspoken about his father in interviews and documentary-style videos. Not just Homer, but his wife, Doris, who died in July 2016 at the age of 91, also had a huge impact on her son Richard. However, Homer George Gere had a lasting impact on his son which led to the actor calling him his "hero."
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Silva shares Homer's life story
Silva's 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 Wednesday, March 1. 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." The caption shared a detailed life story of the late father who was survived by his five children Susan, Richard, Joanne, David, and Laura.
Richard Gere celebrated father Homer's 100th birthday
Only a few months ago, Gere and his loved ones gathered at a restaurant to celebrate Homer turning 100 years old. The birthday party took place in May 2022 at Pastabilities, one of the oldest restaurants in Armory Square, New York. The restaurant shared a picture after the party had concluded along with the caption: “Richard Gere came in to Pasta’s tonight to celebrate his fathers 100th birthday.”
Homer reportedly was a huge inspiration for his son so much so that the 'American Gigolo' actor named his son Homer, too, according to Newsner. Moreover, Gere credits his parents for what he has now as they did everything they could to ensure he got the education he deserved.