Gladys Lorretta Kirkland

Born in New York State on March 30, 1923, Mrs Gladys Loretta Kirkland, raised by her grandparents, spent most of her adult life in the Newburgh, New York area.  Weathering the death of her first husband, she later met and married her second husband Dr. H.D. Kirkland, Jr., and assisted him in his dental practice.  In 1985, the couple retired to Eastside Village in Lake City, Florida.  Following Dr. Kirkland's death in the mid-1990's, Mrs. Kirkland became a true resource to many of her non-driving widow friends in her development, taking them to various appointments, to grocery stores, and to cultural events. In 2014, she moved into WillowBrook, a lovely assisted living facility.  Here she enjoyed two wonderful years before needing Hospice care while still at WillowBrook.  However, in mid-August, it became apparent that she needed to be moved to Hospice Haven care at their facility.  There Gladys received th end-of-life care she needed, dying peacefully on August 19, 2016.  She leaves behind several family members:  Eleanor McKay, Bob McKay and children,Colin and Grace; Sara Jane Lawley and son Kirk; and H. Donald Kirkland, 3rd and son Doug.  Also instrumental in her life  have been her cousin Nancy Thomas of Newburgh and in Lake City, Lorraine Kirkland and Larry Elshoff.  Her goal had always been to reach the age of 90: she certainly did that and then some, having celebrated her 93rd birthday at WillowBrook on March 30, 2016.  She never feared death, having always had a strong faith, which sustained and comforted her. She worshipped at the First Presbyterian Church.  Her ashes will be shipped to Newburgh, New York, where a graveside service will be held. Friends may send donations to Haven Hospice Care Center, 6037 W. US Highway 90, Lake City, FL 32055.  Arrangements are under the care of Guerry Funeral Home, Lake City, Florida

 Service Information