Neil Richard Hurd

Neil Richard Hurd, born November 27, 1941, passed in the comfort of his home in Bow, snuggled up to his trusted dog and in the company of his loved ones on July 19, 2025. His final days were lived with the same heroism he showed throughout his life. Neil spent his formative years in Boscawen, NH, the son of the late Harry and Charlotte Hurd. He never met a challenge that he couldn’t solve with some bull strength and relentless determination. In both business and at home, he had an uncanny vision to create where others just saw need or blank spaces.

Neil lost his parents as a teen and became determined to help others by forging a career in emergency services. He started his ambulance service at 17 years old and carved out a successful career that lasted over six and a half decades. He was later joined by his beloved wife Beverly, forming a dynamic duo. The two of them introduced non-emergency wheelchair transportation to the State of New Hampshire and fought vigorously for it to become a covered service and grant mobility to those in need. In his career, Neil was frequently honored for his selfless actions and heroism. He has received a commendation from two governors, the State Police Award of Merit, and was named the runner-up for National EMT/Paramedic of the Year in 1987. In addition to medical transportation, Neil truly enjoyed the friendships he created at the local fairs with his mobile first aid room and popcorn concessions.

The only thing more important than his work were his loved ones. Neil took great pride in his enormous family and the knowledge that none of us would ever have to face a challenge alone. He wasn’t big on words, but he certainly showed his deep love for all of us through his actions and personal sacrifices.

Neil was a proud Army veteran, having served as a medic in Vietnam, and later serving as the Post Commander of the Loudon American Legion. Additionally, he helped found and served as president of the New Hampshire Ambulance Association.

Accolades aside, he was never more a hero than he was in his own home. While his absence will always be painful, he will be particularly missed at the holidays. His Christmas displays were the stuff of Clark Griswold’s dreams, and brightened the season for family and anyone driving by. The gifts under the tree often reached the ceiling, and he relished taking pictures as the unwrapping stretched on for hours.

In addition to his parents, Neil was predeceased by his wife, the love of his life, Beverly. Truth be told, his broken heart was the one challenge he was never able to navigate. He missed her dearly and longed to be back in her arms. They were blessed to have been able to see the world together as they travelled extensively, and in their later years truly enjoyed spending the winter months in the lower Florida Keys. Neil never tired of fishing the reefs. Additionally, he had previously lost his sons Kevin, Michael, and Brian, and grandchildren Jeffrey and Danielle.

Neil is survived by his children: Robert Ayer (Laura) of Loudon, Christopher Ayer (Ellen) of Concord, Erin Smith (Jason) of Canterbury, Megan Shaffer (Gary) of Hampstead, NC, Ryan Hurd (Tessa) of Bow, Scott Hurd (Christine) of Morganton, NC, Sharon Howe of Bostic, NC; daughter-in-law, Katherine Ayer of Smithfield, VA. Additionally, he leaves behind 28 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren (including his new sentimental favorite, Charlotte Beverly), and 1 great-great-grandchild.

We appreciate the extra days you fought to be here, Dad, but we all know that you’re where you want to be now! Give her a hug and a kiss for all of us! We’ll see you when we get there...

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, July 27, 2025, from 2 PM to 4 PM at Bennett Funeral Home, 209 N. Main St., Concord, NH. A funeral service will take place on Monday, July 28th at 11:00 AM at Bennett’s.