EXCLUSIVE: Taunton stabbing victim’s wife celebrates husband’s birthday at site of tragedy

July 5, 2016 11:32 pm

By: Kirsten Glavin

@kirstenglavin

TAUNTON, MA – There were smiles and a few tears from friends and family as they gathered at the Bertucci’s in the Silver City Galleria, to remember and celebrate the life of Taunton stabbing victim, George Heath. It would have been his 57th birthday.

"I love him. I love him and I miss him. There are so many things I miss about him," said Rosemary Heath, the victim’s wife.

Rosemary told ABC6 News that she was just getting back from spreading her husband’s ashes in Aruba, where he proposed to her. Her goal was to make it to the party by 7:10. The exact time he was killed.

"My plane landed at 6:07 and I got my luggage in the car, and we made it here by 7:10. It was very important to me," Health said.

Rosemary explained that since the stabbing spree that left two dead and others injured, Bertucci’s has become a second home to her. She said the wait staff is like family. And although emotional, the party wasn’t solemn. Many said it was a time to remember the funny, loving man George was.

"Its been… isn’t he hysterical? Didn’t we have a great time when he was around? That type of thing," said Philip McCormick, George’s best friend.

"We’re here to celebrate George," added Mary Perry, a close family friend. "Today was his birthday, and it was very difficult walking in here, but I am so grateful to have the opportunity to be here."

Bertucci’s set up a small plaque on George’s chair, in his memory. In front of the chair was his favorite beer.