Gloria H. Earl, 91 passed away on January 14, 2017, born on January 4, 1926 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Henry and Lena Massara. Gloria attended Judge Memorial High School and graduated in 1944. Four years later she married William B. Earl on June 6, 1948 at the Cathedral of the Madeleine.
Our greatest memory of Gloria was her commitment, dedication and contribution to community service. She was a true volunteer, happily spending hours each week throughout her life serving those in need. She volunteered at Make–a–Wish for 18 years and at the Outpatient Surgical Unit at St. Mark’s Hospital for 20 years. She made bologna sandwiches for the homeless for 15 years at Cathedral of the Madeleine. She truly made a difference in so many lives, and her volunteerism kept her spirit active throughout her life.
She had a strong love for animals (mostly cats) and brought home many strays over the years… Or rather, they would find her! She cared for them all.
She was a world traveler, especially enjoying trips with her granddaughter, Celeste Porter. Celeste remembers fondly how her grandmother would have one travel suitcase just for her shoes. Gloria loved to be fashionable - every outfit matched her shoes. She was also a true trooper – on her first trip to Italy, she fell and broke her elbow but she was determined to stay and enjoy the trip anyway.
Gloria had many hobbies, especially dancing, reading and cooking. She and her husband loved to make the trip out to Saltair as often as they could to listen to the big band sounds. She was quick on her feet and light in step. In her later years she stayed active by walking everywhere she could. She always had a book in her hand and her favorite genre was a good psychological thriller, especially by the author James Patterson. She loved to cook and was known for being adventurous with new recipes. She passed her passion for cooking to her daughter, Teresa, who is also known for her exceptional talents in the kitchen.
Debbie Porter (daughter) and Gloria were best buddies, mother and daughter seeing each other 3 or 4 times a week. They were true companions and loved each other’s company, especially going to lunch and shopping.
Gloria worked for Mountain Fuel (Questar) for 25 years, and retired to her active life of community service. Retirement didn’t slow her down; her life remained active, healthy and happy.
SURVIVING RELATIVES
She is survived by her two daughters, Debbie Porter and Teresa Mooney (Kurtis), also her granddaughter, Celeste Porter. Preceded in death by her husband, William.
Public is invited to the following services on Friday, January 20, 2017 at St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church at 1385 Spring Lane, Salt Lake City
Visitation – 11 AM – 11.45 AM
Mass – 12 PM – 1 PM
Reception Following – 1 PM – 2 PM
In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to the Make-A-Wish Foundation Utah Chapter.
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