Obituary of Gladys Z. White

Gladys Z. White, 83 of Milford passed away peacefully on August 10, 2023 at CT Hospice in Branford. She was born August 6, 1940 in Milford to John and Elsie (Heyde) Zeek. Gladys is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, Edward M. White Sr. and a loving son, Edward White Jr. (Tricia) of Wolcott. She is also survived by her sister, Millicent Craig of Milford, pet companion, “Mandy” and two grand dogs, “Fenway” and “Flynn.” Gladys is preceded in death by her parents and a brother, John “Jack” Zeek. Gladys was a beloved daughter, wife, mother, sister, aunt and friend. In 1961, Gladys married the love of her life Ed and followed him to Georgia where he served in the US Army. There they began their journey together, experiencing love, joy, and adventure in the southern heat of Augusta. Her time there gave her a sense of freedom, excitement and purpose as the young couple forged a bond that would span over six decades. She also developed her love of the southern country style that followed her home to New England where she surrounded herself with pretty things, and above all else – flowers. Gladys would return to Milford to raise her family, spending over 50 years in the home that she loved and reflected her elegant sense of style. In the afternoons she could be found swinging on her porch, accompanied by her dog, enjoying the company of her husband and neighbors. The center of her life were her husband and son, taking great joy in seeing them prosper and find happiness. She devoted her life to caring for her family, making sure that her two guys had all the love and support that they needed to pursue their education, careers and passions. Gladys was a remarkable mother and took great joy in spending time with her son. She loved to play games and encouraged her son’s creativity, love of building, music, and adventure. One of her favorite memories, was climbing on the roof of the house and ambushing her unexpecting son and husband with a squirt gun. Her empathy, kindness and commitment to family, inspired her son to commit his life to empowering others to find their passion and potential as an educator. Gladys loved her family, always showing interest in their journey and story. Many relied on her for sound advice and emotional support. She shared a genuine kindness and empathy that put people at ease, her home and phone line were always open to those she loved, offering a listening ear or a good laugh. Gladys had a witty and silly sense of humor which people appreciated, and there was nothing she enjoyed more than a good joke or funny movie. As a couple, Ed and Gladys had a remarkably deep bond and love for each other. Their experience with “Marriage Encounter” connected them spiritually and deepened their devotion to each other. As a couple they loved to travel, especially with their lifelong friends Joe and Carol Arpino. She often reflected on her favorite adventures which included, the Amalfi Coast, the Cliffs of Moher, Dunn’s River Falls, and countless trips to Broadway. Her last great adventure was on an elegant paddleboat, down the Mississippi River through the rolling hills of Kentucky. As the years passed, Gladys’ struggle with cancer weighed heavy on her body and spirit. Her husband changed roles, becoming her primary care giver for nearly seven years. Throughout the ups and downs of that struggle, Gladys would often say “I just want you to live your life and be happy”. This is her families wish for you. All services are private and under the care of the Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home, 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven. Donations may be made to CT Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford CT 06405 in memory of Gladys Z. White. www.Clancy-PalumboFuneralHome.com 203-467-2789