Gloria White 1927-2024

Gloria was born Sept. 14, 1927, to Frank and Eleanor Cramer. Gloria attended South High School and married the love of her life, William “Bill” Smith on New Year’s Day 1946.

Gloria was a homemaker who made the best Sunday pot roast you ever tasted! Gloria made it a priority to instill the love of God into her family. Gloria loved God and loved being in his presence; if church was open, we were there. Gloria also opened her home as a foster parent to many, many babies and children over the years, loving them and nurturing them until they could be placed with their forever family.

Gloria lost her husband, Bill, in the summer of 1983. Four years later, she met her second husband, Thomas M. White, whom she spent 34 wonderful years with. Gloria and Tom were never apart until he passed away, May 21, 2021.

Gloria had a long life, filled with love, happiness, and at times, sadness, but she was a strong woman who always leaned on her faith.

Gloria leaves behind to cherish her memory, her daughter, Kristine (John) Stephens of Boardman; her grandchildren, Joshua (Samantha) Tanner of Tennessee, Emily Stephens of Akron, Mike (Kristen) Jankowski of South Carolina, Scott (Joice) Jankowski of Orlando, Florida, and Mary Bryant of Wellington, Florida; along with many great-grandchildren.

Gloria was preceded in death by her son, William “Billy” Smith; her husband, William “Bill” Smith; her daughter, Janice Jankowski; her husband, Thomas M White, as well as one brother and three sisters.

Calling hours for Gloria will be noon Monday, Oct. 7, 2024, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home-Austintown Chapel, 4303 Mahoning Ave. A funeral service will commence at 1 p.m. at the funeral home.

The family would like to give a very special thanks to Nurse Anne on the fifth floor of Mercy Health Boardman. Anne took such wonderful care of Gloria and provided emotional support to the family; Anne was an example of God’s perfect timing. The family also would like to thank the nursing staff at Hospice of the Valley — these nurses provide excellent care to the patient and family during one of life’s most difficult times. Also thank you to Shepherd of the Valley Poland, where Gloria resided until her passing.

This obituary can be shared and condolences sent to the family by visiting www.higgins-reardon.com.

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