Palmer Home Receives Generous Donation from Local Business Owner

COLUMBUS, Mississippi, September 7, 2012 — Palmer Home for Children is the gracious recipient of a donation given by Gary Dedeaux, owner of Gary’s Pawn and Gun, in memory of his daughter and her love for children.  Mr. Dedeaux has a passion for Palmer Home, and in his spare time has taken many of the Palmer Home children on their very first airplane ride through the EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association).

In the store’s fourth annual Ruger Sale, a special edition Ruger rifle covered in a Mossy Oak camouflage was sold exclusively through Gary’s Pawn and Gun.  At a kickoff dinner, Gary shared his interest in the Palmer Home and his desire to honor his daughter in a special way. He invited the guests to show their support by participating in the special sale, but he led the way by presenting a check to President Drake Bassett for $100,000. “Gary had communicated his desire to make an impact and he certainly accomplished that. We are overwhelmed by his generosity,” said Bassett.

Additionally, Ruger C.E.O., Mike Fifer, inspired by Gary’s commitment, donated an additional $25,000.00 on behalf of the Sturm, Ruger & Co. Inc. The spirit of giving continued with an auction of a custom pistol that was sold four separate times producing another $25,000.00. Gary requested that the evening conclude with a performance by the Treblemakers, the children’s choir from Palmer Home.