Obituary of Gloria J. VanFleet

Gloria J. VanFleet, 78, of Woodhull, passed away on Friday evening, April 11, 2025, at Highland Hospital in Rochester, surrounded by her loving family. Born on May 11, 1946, on the family farm in Woodhull, Gloria was the daughter of the late Maynard and Gladys Dennis Brewer. She attended the Woodhull Union Free School through 9th grade and graduated from Jasper Central School. On November 21, 1964, she married Larry VanFleet at the Hedgesville Presbyterian Church. Together they purchased and operated the family farm on Little Road in the Town of Woodhull, where they raised their family. Gloria played a vital role in both the business and home aspects of the farm, embodying the strength and warmth of a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker. A woman of incredible self-sufficiency, Gloria tended a large vegetable garden each year, preserving its bounty through canning and freezing to nourish her family year-round. Her homemade strawberry jam remains a cherished memory for those who loved her. She was a skilled seamstress and a remarkable cook, whose talents added immeasurable value to her home and family life. Gloria was a member of the former North Jasper Mothers Club and the Hedgesville Presbyterian Church. Above all, her life revolved around her family—her greatest joy was spending time with her children and grandchildren. She is survived by her husband of over 60 years, Larry VanFleet of Woodhull; her daughter, Laurie VanFleet, and grandchildren Amber Rodrigues and Jessa Rodrigues (Sean Heckman), and great-grandson Baylor Kreck; her daughter, Leslie (Brian) Gray, and grandchildren Joel VanFleet, Bethany Rahr (Casey Perry), Benjamin (Deborah) Gray, Brandon (Kelsey) Gray, Alec Gray (Leslie Harder), and Lukas Gray, and great-grandchildren KohtaVanFleet, James Gray, Jaxon Gray, Jameson Gray, and Jacob Gray; her son, David (Kristine) VanFleet, and grandchildren Andrew VanFleet and Rachel (Tyler) VanSkiver, and great-granddaughter Eloise VanSkiver; her daughter, Nicole (Jason) Baker, and grandchildren Zachary Baker, Gracie Baker, and Emily Baker. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Cindy Brewer, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her parents, Gloria was predeceased by her brothers, Ronald Brewer, Darwin Brewer, and Francis Brewer. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, to be announced. Arrangements are entrusted to H.P. Smith & Son Funeral Home in Woodhull.