Gladys Melinda Fitzgerald

Gladys M. Fitzgerald (Fuller), born on January 20, 1925, in Oran, Iowa, passed away at the age of 99 on November 10, 2024, in Peoria, Illinois.

She was the cherished daughter of the late Vern and Maude (Carpenter) Fuller and was preceded in death by her former husband Barney Studdard, Jr., with whom she shared six loving children, all surviving: Gloria Sale, Dennis Studdard, Dan Studdard, Joyce (Tom) Walz, Connie (Rod) Bledsoe and Linda (Alan) Kupferschmid.

Gladys was a proud grandmother to 14 grandchildren and four step-grandchildren, and her legacy continues through her 24 great-grandchildren. 

Gladys was also preceded in death by her siblings, Russell (Donna Hansen) Fuller, Sylvester (Marjorie Sims) Fuller, Beverly Yarrington, and Darwin (Barbara Cox) Fuller. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Ronald Yarrington.

Gladys lived a long, full life defined by her creativity, love of family, and adventurous spirit. She was a skilled crafter who loved crocheting, sewing, and quilting, sharing her beautiful handmade creations with those she loved. Her musical talents shone through as she played the Hawaiian guitar, a skill she treasured throughout her life. Gladys also loved traveling and exploring the country by car, savoring scenic road trips and adventures.

Gladys will be remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who brought joy and warmth to everyone she met. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A celebration of her life will be held in 2025.