Gerry Largay was a 66-year-old hiker from Tennessee who was reported missing in July 2013 while hiking the Appalachian Trail in Maine. Her disappearance sparked a nation-wide search, but despite the efforts of hundreds of volunteers, law enforcement, and searchers, Gerry's body was not found. What happened to Gerry Largay and was she ever found?
Background of Gerry Largay
Gerry Largay was a 66-year-old nurse and grandmother from Tennessee. She was an experienced hiker who had completed long-distance hikes in the past. She was hiking with her husband George, who was her husband and hiking partner of 47 years. On July 22, 2013, Gerry and George parted ways, with George returning home and Gerry continuing to hike solo.
Gerry was expected to arrive at a shelter located about 20 miles away from where she and George parted ways. When Gerry failed to arrive, George reported her missing to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, launching a widespread search.
The Search for Gerry Largay
Over 1,000 volunteers and law enforcement personnel searched for Gerry for weeks, with the search eventually extending into other states. A dedicated website was set up to share information and coordinate the search, and George Largay was in constant contact with the search coordinators. Despite the extensive search efforts, Gerry was never found.
The Discovery of Gerry Largay's Remains
Gerry's remains were finally discovered in October 2015, two years after her disappearance. Her remains were found just 1.3 miles from where she and George had parted ways, in an area that had been searched multiple times. The cause of death was determined to be starvation and exposure. Gerry's remains were found in a tent, where she had been living for over two months.
Gerry had become lost and disoriented, and had been unable to find her way back to the trail. She had been sending text messages to her husband, but had not been able to get a cell signal in order to call for help. Her remains were discovered when a team of foresters were conducting a survey of an area that had been searched multiple times before.
The Aftermath of Gerry Largay's Tragic Death
Gerry's death has been a tragedy for her family and for the hiking community. In her memory, her family has established a scholarship fund for young women who are interested in pursuing a career in nursing. The Gerry Largay Memorial Fund is administered by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and has already provided assistance to several students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Gerry Largay?
Gerry Largay was a 66-year-old nurse and grandmother from Tennessee who went missing while hiking the Appalachian Trail in Maine in July 2013.
What happened to Gerry Largay?
Gerry Largay became lost and disoriented while hiking and was unable to find her way back to the trail. She survived for two months before eventually succumbing to starvation and exposure.
When was Gerry Largay found?
Gerry Largay's remains were discovered in October 2015, two years after her disappearance.
Who is administering the Gerry Largay Memorial Fund?
The Gerry Largay Memorial Fund is administered by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.
What is the purpose of the Gerry Largay Memorial Fund?
The Gerry Largay Memorial Fund is a scholarship fund for young women who are interested in pursuing a career in nursing.
How can I help support the Gerry Largay Memorial Fund?
You can donate money to the Gerry Largay Memorial Fund by visiting the Appalachian Trail Conservancy website.
What is the status of the search for Gerry Largay?
The search for Gerry Largay was called off in October 2015 when her remains were discovered.
Where was Gerry Largay when she went missing?
Gerry Largay was reported missing while hiking the Appalachian Trail in Maine.
What area was searched for Gerry Largay?
The search for Gerry Largay extended into other states and involved over 1,000 volunteers and law enforcement personnel.
How long did Gerry Largay survive after going missing?
Gerry Largay survived for two months before her remains were discovered.
Did Gerry Largay have any hiking experience prior to her disappearance?
Gerry Largay was an experienced hiker who had completed long-distance hikes in the past.
Was Gerry Largay alone when she went missing?
Gerry Largay was hiking solo when she went missing, although she had been hiking with her husband prior to her disappearance.
What was the cause of Gerry Largay's death?
The cause of death was determined to be starvation and exposure.
How far away from the trail was Gerry Largay when she was found?
Gerry Largay's remains were found just 1.3 miles from where she and her husband had parted ways.
What did Gerry Largay do for a living?
Gerry Largay was a nurse.
Where can I find more information about Gerry Largay?
More information about Gerry Largay can be found on the dedicated website that was set up during the search for her.