If I could pick my mother-in-law, I would choose Gloria. I first saw her in 1968 in her hot white Cadillac with Beth in the front seat. My immediate thought was - what a beautiful woman. Later she would welcome me to her family when I married her son, Mark, in 1973.
Gloria lived her life in an abundance of love for God and her family. Grace, compassion, and empathy were all hallmarks of her life. She accepted the challenges life presented, some very difficult, with perseverance and without complaint. She leaned on Jehovah and taught her children to do the same.
Gloria was ahead of her time when it came to nutrition and skin care, leading to several successful businesses. She raised four amazing children. While raising her family, though having a smaller house (1 bathroom), and a family of 7, she took in children, adults, and disabled adults until they were able to get back on their feet, with Don’s support. She never looked for recognition, praise, or repayment of any sort. There was no shortage of heart, and if her glass was half full she shared what she had.
However, there was one thing Gloria would not tolerate-disobedience in her children. There are many humorous stories of her disciplining her 4 kids. They remember that if one “got it” they likely all would for something they had done the day before, thinking they had gotten away with it. My father-in-law was asked how they raised such nice kids. He quickly replied: “Gloria stayed home with the children.” They all appreciate her devoted care.
So although my heart feels a great loss, I am thankful that Gloria left a legacy of a person you could bear your soul to, compassion, kindness and empathy without judgment. She was welcoming, hospitable, a fabulous cook and baker. She was known for her ability put a spread on the table in lightening speed. She was a beautiful woman on the inside and out. I will always think of her blazing through Emerald Hills in her white Cadillac. She loved Jehovah, her family, and life.
