Editor, Gazette-Journal:

On Jan. 14, I lost the best friend I ever had. Dennis Gregory loved to fly his ultralight airplane and died while flying his plane in Middlesex County. Not many people meet their end doing what they love to do as Dennis did.

He and his family have lived next door to my family for 30+ years. We became very close over the years and did lots of things together. My wife Mary and I watched his sons grow up and they often called me their second dad. That was a great honor to me.

Dennis and I did many things together over the years. I am really going to miss that, and his company. He was a true best friend that I could count on and talk to about anything. I know he is in a better place now and I will always miss him. I will forever cherish the time we had together and will always hold a special place in my heart.

May God bless and help his family through this difficult time.

Jerry Rich

Glenns, Va. ...