From Penang to Perth, nightclubs to missions, Bentley Park retirement living residents, fondly known as Richard and Gladys, share tl1eir story of love, resilience and unwavering faith. A life truly lived together. So, where did it all begin? 

Early Days 

In 1971, Richard returned to Penang, which he referred to as the "Pearl of the Orient," as a young and aspiring dentist beginning his housemanship, the supervised training every dental graduate must complete, in Malaysia. He met Gladys through a friend of her RAAF aunt. That introduction created a bond that would develop into a lifelong partnership of 51 years. 

Their early days together were filled with music and dancing in nightclubs. Gladys studied nursing, while Richard kept building his career in dentistry. In 1971 they pledged their commitment to each other through their engagement while enjoying over a year in England, travelling and working. In February 1974, Richard and Gladys married in Richard's Muslim hometown of Kota Bharu. 

A New Life in Australia 

A short holiday to Perth in 1975 profoundly changed the couple's lives. They were captivated by the city's serene charm, a stark contrast to the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur. "It felt like a cowboy town," Richard recalls. "It was love at first sight," Gladys adds. A friend mentioned a dental surgery for sale in Merredin and soon after returning to Malaysia, Richard applied for a visa to buy the practice. Richard migrated to Australia in mid-1976 first and Gladys followed after giving birth to their daughter. 

A Calling to Serve 

"I came to Australia as a dentist, but left Merredin as a missionary," Richard says. His calling was sparked while travelling in London, where he saw a sign at the tube station entrance that read, "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" Richard explains that "these words bum in my heart, all my life until today. I still live by these words." Gladys devoted herself to raising their two daughters before joining Richard in his mission. 

For 40 years, their missionary journey took them across Borneo Malaysia, Western Yunnan and far beyond to Israel, Jordan and Sumatra. They lived in towns like Merredin, Wagin, Port Hedland, Perth and even returned to Kuala Lumpur during challenging times. Frequent moves meant their children often changed schools, making friendships hard to maintain, a sacrifice they faced as part of the missionary life. Yet, these years were rich with purpose and adventure. 

Their trip to Israel stands out as one of their most memorable experiences, especially since they received a free trip during September - October Rosh Hashanah, a time when all accommodations were fully booked due to Christians from around the world gathering in lsrael. "Everyone should visit Israel at least once in their lifetime, especially Christians. The spiritual atmosphere is very real there. It's where Christ walked, so it feels very different from other places," proclaims Richard. 

Today, Gladys and Richard look back with pride on a life dedicated to faith and service. "What I love most about missionary work is being called to teach about Jesus' soon return. I've been doing this for over 30 years," he shares. "I've been guided from above to help people reach heaven and prepare others for eternity. Even Christians need to be encouraged to serve the kingdom of God for eternal rewards." 

Their secret to a long life? "Work for your rewards in eternity with the Lord's help. Suffer now, pay a price now and you will be more than well rewarded in eternity." For them, a good life is simple: "always stick to the word of God." 

New Chapter at SwanCare

"Retirement" isn't a word within their vocabulary. "Missionaries never truly retire, we are missionaries until we die," proclaims Richard. After many years of travelling they came back to Australia in 2018 and 2021 respectively and began searching for a new place to live. A pastor friend recommended SwanCare and after patiently waiting more than a year for an opening, they moved in January 2024. 

"I think this is the best place in Western Australia for seniors," Richard says. "There are so many beautiful trees and flowers, I get to appreciate God's creations," adds Gladys. 
Family remains one of their greatest joy and sadness. "We have two daughters and five adored grandchildren who are all very smart," Gladys shares proudly. Gladys's free time is filled with housework and shopping, while Richard spends his time reflecting on decades of mission work and dreams of what's next in his calling. They worship at Welshpool Bethany Indonesian Church they helped pioneer in 1995. 

You'll often see them at Care Christian Fellowship on Mondays or relaxing at one of SwanCare's cafes. Richard and Gladys always welcome a chat so be sure to say hello when you see them out and about. 

Thank you, Richard and Gladys, for sharing your incredible story. We are blessed to have you as part of our SwanCare community.