Beloved Willie Mae's server, Reagan Gurney, was struck by a driver on Friday, October 8 while riding his bike home on Law Street off of St. Bernard Avenue. The New Orleans Police Department is still trying to find the person driving the vehicle that killed Gurney and fled the scene. It has been told by friends that Gurney was someone who loved to laugh, dance, and was free-spirited. According to a report by WWL, "Just this year alone, there's been six bicyclist fatalities in New Orleans."
There will be a bike ride and benefit planned on Saturday, November 6 for Gurney. Starting at the R Bar on 1431 Royal St., the bike ride begins at 1 p.m. It will pass through Pals, Bayou Beer Garden, McCool's, then end at The Holy Ground Irish Pub at 5 p.m.
From 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. at The Holy Ground, collection of a portion of sales and 100% of tips will go straight to Gurney's family. There will be a raffle at 6 p.m. and locals from the community are sure to give donations—those include a staycation at the R Bar & Hotel, a signed George Clinton commemorative T-shirt donated by Spillman and Blackwell Fine Art, gift cards from restaurants, and donations from local artists.
To help with funeral expenses, visit the Go Fund Me page organized by Desiree Washington, Gurney's best friend and roommate. Visit the Bike Ride & Benefit page if you are interested in attending.
