Rare Olde Times fixture Harry 'Gerry' Laverty killed in hit-and-run

Harry Laverty, better known as Gerry, was a beloved folksinger who performed often at Rare Olde Times in Henrico's West End.

He died in a hit-and-run Friday morning near East Main and 21st streets in Shockoe Bottom. He was 75.

Police have charged John McSparren, 47, with felony hit-and-run.

Now friends and fellow musicians are remembering his life and the music he leaves behind.

"Every time he touched a piece of music, he gave it 100%," longtime friend Hank Selby said. "He was a very gracious person."

Selby met Gerry at another open mic night in Richmond, and the rest was history.

"Gerry was opinionated. Wicked sense of humor," Selby said.

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