ROCKLAND — Gloria E. Whitehouse, 79, died peacefully with loving family at her side, Saturday, October 16, 2021 at Windward Gardens Nursing Home in Camden.

Born in Rockland, May 23, 1942, she was the daughter of Lester L. and Norma Teel Staples. Gloria grew up in Rockland, attended Rockland Schools, and graduated from Rockland High School in 1960.

Proud of her local heritage, she was a beloved custodian at Rockland High School for many years. Her children remember her working there when they were students, with them often “dodging” her in the hallway, only to have their friends always thrilled to see her!

She was crafty, and at one time owned the “WinGlo” ceramics shop with her best friend, Winnifred Wildes. She made friends everywhere she went, and loved spending summers camping at different seasonal camp sites. Her
children said they have lasting friendships and memories made at Mic-Mac, Alford Lake and mothers with the Nelson and Stein families.

Never one to sit still, she was known as “Go-Go” because she was always headed off somewhere, usually to visit with friends. She was a life-long member of the Emblem Club, she has served as president of that organization and spent countless hours helping with fundraisers and programs.

She was always thinking of others before herself, and her contagious smile and generous heart will be missed by all who loved her.

Predeceased by her parents; and a brother, Lester Staples; Gloria is survived by her son, Scott Ballard and his wife Lori of Lisbon Falls; her daughter, Michelle O’Dwyer and her husband Kieran of Rockport; her sister, Arlene Putansu and her husband Dennis of Owls Head; her five beloved grandchildren, Conor, Alec, Liam and Molly O’Dwyer, Ian Ballard; as well as several nieces, nephews and many cousins.

Family and friends are invited to visit Monday, October 25, 2021, from 12 to 1 p.m., with a service immediately following at 1 p.m., at West Rockport Baptist Church, 545 Park Street, Rockport, Maine. The Rev.David English will officiate. Masks will be required for in-person attendees. For those unable to attend in person, a live-stream will be available on Gloria’s Book of Memories at: www.bchfh.com “GloriaWhitehouse” Photos & Videos “Watch Webcast.”

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to, Emblem Club, c/o Rockland Lodge of Elks, P.O. Box 983, Rockland, Maine 04841.

Arrangemnts are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.