Gloria Donnelly

Gloria Donnelly, born on April 2, 1929, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2024. She was a compassionate woman of boundless spirit, whose love and care reverberated not only through her family but also through her extensive career in the healthcare sector.

Gloria is survived by her daughters, Kathleen and Dianne Donnelly; her son, William Donnelly; son-in-law, Waldemar Wojcik, and her beloved grandchildren, Nicholas and Jessica Wojcik. She was predeceased by her loving husband, William Joseph Donnelly.

Beginning her journey in medicine as a Registered Nurse from Temple University in 1948, Gloria initially worked at the Jewish Hospital. She subsequently spent time in the Operating Room of Fairview Hospital in 1968. Gloria left Fairview in 1974. Gloria transitioned into palliative care in 1980, providing comfort and support as a Hospice Nurse until her retirement in 1998.

A memorial service to honor Gloria's life will be held at 7 PM on Friday, January 10, 2025, at Broadview Heights Baptist Church, where she was a devoted attendee.

Gloria was passionate about community involvement, and volunteered her time at Lakewood Division of Aging. She found joy in simple pleasures such as sweet potato pie, scrambled eggs, and classic literature such as 'Sonnets from the Portuguese' and various biographies. Her tastes were eclectic, extending from Christmas carols and classical music to her favorite TV shows like Bewitched and Hallmark movies. Gloria was also an admirer of fine arts, with a soft corner for the works of Monet, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Johannes Vermeer, and Norman Rockwell. The game of chess and crossword puzzles were her comfort zones.

Her jovial personality shone through her favorite activities, which included flirting, telling jokes, and napping in the sun. She loved exercise and even taught a class called 'Limber Limbs and Flex Appeal'. Among her favorite places were Chicago, Columbus, Florida, local Cleveland Metro Art Museum and the Metroparks.

A lover of animals, Gloria firmly believed in treating others with respect and kindness. Her greatest accomplishments included her career as an RN, and more importantly, raising her beautiful children and grandchildren. She leaves behind a legacy of love.

She will be remembered as a friendly, witty, and humorous woman with a heart of gold. She wore her favorite color, Royal Blue, with great poise and charm. Gloria Donnelly's life was a testament to generosity, warmth, and undying love. Her memory will continue to inspire all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers the family asked that donations be made to Alzheimer's Association at the following  LINK