Plymouth Village Chaplain was Friends with George Geftakys
When I first met George amp; Betty no one brought up what I have read on the internet since. If I had, it would have made no difference, not because I ignore these sort of issues, but as Residents of Plymouth Village amp; in my position as Chaplain they would be entitled to my services free of judgment amp; condemnation.
I liked George a lot and he would always attend any of my programs. I had a Chaplain's Breakfast amp; he was always there. Each week,a different person would take the chair, George being one of them. He attended my Bible study sessions amp; I loved the Bible he had amp; how he colour coded various quotes.
Both George amp; Betty would drop into my office, sharing a coffee often. I was invited to various meals in Plymouth Village, and I spent several with George. I organised at least 2 seperate events, George attended both! When both of them became ill, I went to the Hospital when they were there. Some would say that was my job, but I also wanted to go as they became my friends.
George came with me on several occasions to the National Military Cemetery in Riverside, and on one occasion in 2008, he asked me to arrange a meeting for him to get details for himself. I hope he has been buried there.
George amp; I talked often outside of the eyes of Plymouth Village where the more Liberal types did not like him; well tough, he was my friend! I eventually was fired as I clashed with the authorities of ABHOW [American Baptist Homes of the West] who own Plymouth Village in Redlands amp; I was banned from the grounds, I was told I cannot talk with any residents amp; they cannot associate with me! George ignored this; we arranged several clandestine arranged meetings. When we finally felt I had to leave Redlands amp; probably wrongly returned to the UK (my wife is American), it was George who comforted my wife as she was upset amp; gave me money to get me through.
Sorry for writing so much, but I miss my dear friend and although we did not agree every time, he was my friend. When I left in March 2009, I never imagined 5years later he would be dead. Regardless of what some hateful people say, I knew the real George; a kind, God fearing, patient amp; kind man. He did seek my counsel with Betty amp; it was very emotional for both of them, so I saw this side, but that will never be released from me. George would attend my church services amp; write notes on my sermons, but he was always very gracious.
Sadly, any memorial service that Plymouth Village have or will have will not honour him correctly, as the Chaplain before me attempted to "put me off" George amp; the one that followed who is still there is a friend of the previous chaplain I have mentioned. I thank God for allowing George to be my friend. I wish I could write to his family, but I have no contact details.
Lee Stewart