Gaylord Wellington Belcher, Jr.

Gaylord W. Belcher Jr. – “The Great Warrior”

Gaylord W. Belcher Jr., who proudly referred to himself as “The Great Warrior,” passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026, at the age of 82 in Hoosick Falls, New York.

Born on July 14, 1944 B.C. Before Cable he would say, in Troy, New York, Gaylord lived a life defined by strength, resilience, unwavering love for his family, and a remarkable sense of humor that could brighten any room. Through every challenge life placed before him, he faced it with determination, courage, and the fighting spirit of a true warrior. If you asked him how he was doing, he would always say, “Still dancing.”

Gaylord dedicated his entire working career to Freihofer’s Baking Company, where he worked until his retirement. He took great pride in his work and in providing for his family.

Above all else, Gaylord was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. His greatest joy came from spending time with his family. Whether he was sharing his silly—and sometimes inappropriate jokes, telling stories, or simply enjoying being surrounded by those he loved, there was never a dull moment when he was around. Other than his family he loved Rasslin (Wrestling), watching the Big Bang Theory with his granddaughter Jordan, the ocean, Skippy peanut butter, BBQ chicken wings, OREOS, and anything chocolate.

Gaylord was preceded in death by his father, Gaylord W. Belcher Sr.; his mother, Lena Villa Belcher; his stepmother, Kathleen Belcher; and his brother, Mark Earl.

He leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory: his loving daughter Dr. Pill-Kimberly (Jeffrey) Dunham of Hoosick Falls, NY; His Chip off the old block, his son, Gaylord (Deborah) Belcher III of Watervliet, NY; and his M&M his daughter Gay Marie Miles of Troy, NY.

He was a proud grandfather, lovingly known as Papa Bub, to Allison (Joseph) Dinerstein, and Poppy to Jordan (Garrett) Holbrook, Jacob (Reagan) Holbrook, James Miles, Terrance Miles, and Willie Clarke. He was also blessed with five great-grandchildren. Although he never had the opportunity to meet his newest great-grandson, Garrett Edward, who was born on July 2, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada, the distance between them never diminished the love he had for the newest member of his family. The smile when he saw the pictures of the baby will always be a memory we hold.

Gaylord is also survived by his siblings, James (Barbara) Belcher, David Belcher, Diane (William) Remior, and Barbara (Paul) Theilen; his cherished life long friends, Mary Costa and Sue Casey; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Dialysis Team at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center who cared for him for many years and loved him so much and to the exceptional doctors, nurses, and patient care technicians on the 4th Floor Pavilion at Samaritan Hospital in Troy, NY. The compassion, kindness, and outstanding care they provided during his lengthy hospital stay brought comfort not only to him but to his entire family. Your dedication and support will never be forgotten.

At the family’s request, his celebration of life will be private. The family sincerely thanks everyone for their love, prayers, and kindness as they grieve this tremendous loss.

Those wishing to honor his memory please consider making a donation to the National Kidney Foundation, the American Kidney Fund, or by donating a vehicle through Kidney Cars. Your generosity will help provide hope and support to others facing kidney disease.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing that The Great Warrior has finally laid down his armor and found peace.

Dad, Papa Bub, Poppy—you gave us a lifetime of love, laughter, strength, and unforgettable memories. Your legacy lives on in each of us, and you will be loved, missed, and remembered always and forever.