In Memory of Our Beloved Friend

William Gary, a favored  12th Street campus safety officer, passed away on the night of December 3 in Brooklyn’s Methodist Hospital. Will, 46, recently suffered from a neck injury while lifting weights. The injury led to complications, including an allergic reaction to his medical treatment. The exact cause of death is not yet known, as of this print date. He is survived by a 10-year-old son.

Will, will be greatly missed not only by his family and friends, but also by The New School community at large. He possessed a cheerfulness and kindness that affected any person who walked through the 12th Street building. “He was the only security guard I interacted with during my entire master’s program,” said Julie Seabrook, a MFA creative writing major who graduated last May. “He was someone who you would take off earphones to say hi to.”

Will served The New School community for more than 11 years. Throughout his life, Will not only protected the university, but also the nation. He served in the Persian Gulf Conflict and was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army after eight years of service.

“He was always happy and always so helpful,” said Bonnie Reilly, a fellow campus safety security guard. She said he was a caring man who often helped his co-workers with their personal problems.

In an email sent out to the university community, President David Van Zandt said that he had met with Will’s family and expressed the community’s condolences. “He was someone who, in his own low-key and kind-hearted way, supported, appreciated and connected people across every part of the university,” the message read.

There is a memorial table in the 12th Street lobby where people may write messages of condolence. A memorial service will also be held early in the spring semester. Administrators have set up a GiveForward memorial fund to help support Will’s family. Senior Security Officer Tony De Nonno said that he is looking into placing a bronze plaque at the 12th Street front desk in honor of Will. “I will never forget his heart warming smile,” he said. “Now 3:30 will never be the same again.”

Thoughtful Reflections from our Readers:

I used to jokingly call him “Mr. New School” when I saw him, because he was such a social butterfly who bright­ened everyone’s day. We lost a great member of the community this week. LAURA STROKES

Something tells me that when my time comes, there on the other side ready to greet me will be Will Gary and that huge smile and we’ll bro-hug nod to one another and as I walk away, I’ll know I’m where I’m supposed to be. KEITH R. HIGGONS

Missing him is an understatement… I am thankful for our friendship and will keep the memories close to heart. MICHELLE ROZIER

I had a difficult go of it in college, eight years altogether. Five of which were at The New School. Will Gary was there my first day, saw me out of my first New School house party safely, gave me pointers on how to re­construct my leg muscles in the gym after knee sur­gery (helped me into the elevator with my crutches), congratulated me on my marriage and attended my graduation ceremony. Will Gary left an indelible mark on every person he came into contact with and inspires me to be as outgoing and genuinely polite to people I have just met. FRANTZ JEROME