Gary Beckett

Gary Beckett born to the parents of Ronald and Jaquline Beckett. Gary was born with a losing hand by any standard of measure. Our parents were told by doctors to have him institutionalized and to forget he was born. So was the thought back in 1963. Our mother was having none of that and brought Gary home to be raised in our family. This decision as those who have done the same, is a struggle. Gary learned to walk at four, in diapers until 10. Raging frustration not having the ability to communicate, he scratched his arms until they bled. Wrapping them in Ace bandages was one solution. But slowly Gary broke through, eventually with modern treatments at the Hogan center, Gary improved to where he could be placed in a group home in Lynn, With our mothers constant care and the dedicated staff, whose work is so undervalued. Gary became a person who eventually enjoyed his life. Even if much of that was watching TV, sneaking cookies or dancing for anyone who prompted him. Later in life and after our mother's passing, mobility became an issue for Gary. So he was moved to Federal street in Salem where he could live on one level, stairs were no longer an option. After a bumpy transition Gary spent the last years of his very sedate life, in the loving care of another great and dedicated staff.   

Gary was survived by His brothers Mark and his wife Deborah of Boxford - Gregory Beckett - Kevin Beckett of  Moultonborough NH and his sister Heather and her husband Rick Nolan and several nieces and nephews.