An Unexpected Bequest and a Heartfelt Donation
Fortune does not change men: it unmasks them
— Suzanne Necker, 1739-1794

Jay Patterson has gone above and beyond his duties as a social worker at Tri-City Hospice. The first time was when he helped the elderly husband of a Hospice patient. After the loss of his wife, George Ehring, 89, grieved silently and alone. He had no children and was a shy man who found it difficult to connect with people. George was very isolated and even looked forward to telemarketer’s calls because sometimes he didn’t talk to anyone for two or three days at a time.

For over two years, Jay visited him on his own time on a regular basis. Jay spent many hours enjoying George’s stories about his early days as a Hollywood prop maker. Jay and George established a warm and special friendship that lasted until George’s death last year.

George never mentioned his will, but in addition to leaving a bequest to Tri-City Hospice children’s programs, he left a personal bequest of $5,000 to Jay. This unexpected and much appreciated gift was used by Jay, not for his own personal needs, but to establish the George Ehring Educational Fund for continuing education for Hospice staff.

“I know George loved the Hospice staff and it would please him to know that he is helping improve the care they provide to patients and families,” said Jay.

The amount of Jay’s gift has grown even greater by a matching gift from the Tri-City Hospital Foundation and contributions from George’s niece and the community. The Fund will continue to increase through additional solicitations.

Jay’s unselfish act of kindness is multiplying the impact of Mr. Ehring’s original bequest and will continue to make a difference at Tri-City Hospice for years to come.