Florida Coach With Alzheimer, Exploited by Nurse and Her Daughter, Who Stole Bikes, Furniture, and Increased His Weekly Cash Withdrawals by $400
Family uncovers deceptive scheme targeting coach Bud Abell’s vulnerability.
October 17, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on October 16, 2026
Beloved coach, Bud Abell, who is living with Alzheimer’s disease, was allegedly targeted and taken advantage of by a woman who posed as a nurse and her daughter.
According to his family, Abell’s trusted caregiver, identified as Melissa Ray, and her daughter, Stacey Ray, manipulated and exploited his vulnerable state.
When Melissa began caring for him, his weekly cash withdrawals reportedly spiked from $100 to $500. During this period, Abell’s hygiene and grooming were neglected, raising concerns within the family.
When Abell’s daughter, Noel, returned home, she uncovered what the family describes as a calculated effort to deceive and rob the elderly coach.
Stacey allegedly visited the house to record a video of Abell, who, because of his illness, was manipulated into verbally allowing them to take his belongings.
Melissa and Stacey reportedly emptied Abell’s home, taking bicycles, furniture, washers, dryers, dishes, and even antique sewing machines that belonged to his late wife.
The family said the items were only returned after the sheriff’s department intervened.
Although law enforcement responded to the scene, the daughter’s recording complicated immediate arrests.
According to Abell’s son, Gregory Cash, the video was used to make it appear as if Abell had given them permission, despite his inability to make sound decisions due to his medical condition.
“This mother-daughter duo took advantage of my dad’s Alzheimer’s,” Gregory said.
“They cleaned out his home and left him vulnerable. It was awful, and everyone needs to know.”
The case has sparked outrage throughout the community. Former students, friends, and neighbors have flooded social media with messages of support and prayers.
Many remember Abell not only as a respected teacher and coach but also as a kind and trusted mentor.
One commenter wrote,
“He was one of the only men able to teach me mathematics at Mosley. He was such a gentle giant.”
Another added,
“He cared so much for all of us. This makes me sick to my stomach. People who take advantage of the elderly should be held accountable.”
The family is actively pursuing legal action to hold Melissa and Stacey Ray accountable and to prevent similar incidents from happening to others.
Abell is now receiving professional care at The Blake, where his family says he is “the happiest he’s been in years.”
“This isn’t just about my dad,” Gregory emphasized. “We hope to stop this from happening to another family. No one should have to experience this kind of betrayal.”
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