Gloria Gae Smith

Gloria Gae Smith, of Valyrian Place and Mill Pond Health Campus in Greencastle, passed away in her sleep on April 21, 2024.

Gloria was born on Dec. 9, 1930 to Robert and Martha Gump in Fontana, Calif.

Moving to Panama City, Fla., in her high school years, Gloria met the love of her life, Ernest L. (Duke) Smith. Following high school, they were married in 1949 and spent 58 years together celebrating their love.

Gloria and Duke are survived by three children, Marsha and Dr. Dan Croner of North Manchester, Michael and Susan Smith of Fishers and Dr. Mark Smith and Suzy Starr of Greencastle. Gloria had six grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Gloria and Duke lived for many years at Heritage Lake, enjoying lake life there. Gloria was very active in the property owners’ association and helped to establish the Heritage Lake Garden Club, the Lake Library and coffee and sewing groups.

Gloria was an avid painter, seamstress and craftswoman. She loved the arts and belonged to sewing guilds and painting groups like Indy Tolers, a chapter of the Society of Decorative Painters. She frequently attended classes and seminars to further her experiences and talents. She loved mentoring young seamstresses in 4-H and was often asked to judge in arts and crafts. She created many Christmas Chrisoms and enjoyed mending and repairing the special linens and vestments for her church, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church of Greencastle. Her creative spirit allowed her to continue into her later years doing paintings for her family and friends, as well as crafting and designing doll clothes.

Gloria lived her life fully loving her family and friends and will be missed by many.

A celebration of Gloria’s life will be held at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Greencastle on June 15 at 11:30 a.m. with Reverend Jennifer Oldstone-Moore officiating. A reception will be held immediately following the ceremony in the church parish hall.

Memorial contributions may be sent to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Greencastle or to your local humane society.