Dru Gladden, 87, of Eden, MD, entered her heavenly home on Friday, August 2nd, 2024 from Wicomico Nursing Home. She was born in Fruitland on June 23, 1937 to her late parents Ethel Zimmerman Conley and Alonzo James Conley, Sr. Dru is survived by her son, Dean Edmond Gladden and his wife Melanie; her daughters, Denise Gladden Donalds and Sandy Conley Gladden. She also leaves behind a legacy of love through her four grandchildren: Jamie Gladden (Mandy), Lauren Gladden Freyder (Drew), Stacey Hilton (Wayne), and Cody Donalds (Liz). Her 14 great-grandchildren—Grace, Liam, and Jude Gladden; Bella, Amia, and Giana Freyder; Trent, Dylan, Chris, Peighton, Colton, Jaxon, and Journee Hilton; and Abigail Donalds—were a source of immense joy to her.
Dru is also remembered by her brother, Alonzo Conley; and her sister-in-law, Mary Sue Gladden and her children, Missy and David (Tara). She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Elbert; their infant son, Chris; her sister Janet; her brother-in-law Gordon, and her dear friend Vetra Hurley.
A graduate of Wi Hi in 1955, Dru began her professional journey working alongside her family at Conley Hardware in Fruitland. In 1957, she married Elbert Gladden, and together they founded Gladden Construction in 1961, a legacy that endures through their son Dean and grandson Jamie. Dru and Elbert enjoyed 63 years of marriage before he went to heaven.
Dru was instrumental in her children’s lives, ensuring all three graduated from high school. She was a steadfast supporter of her husband’s fastpitch softball endeavors, serving as treasurer for Jack’s Sanitary Service. She enjoyed coaching her daughters’ summer league softball team. Her unwavering support extended to all her family’s sporting events, where she was their biggest cheerleader.
At Delmarva Evangelistic Church, Dru’s servant’s heart was evident as she served as the nursery coordinator for many years and contributed to the creation of three beloved cookbooks. Her love for her family was matched only by her generosity and kindness towards others. Known for her infectious laugh and her ability to make any gathering special with her cooking, Dru was a pillar of strength and love for all who knew her.
To those who knew Dru knew that her most cherished loves on earth were her husband, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Dru never knew a stranger and if you knew her you loved her. Her infectious laugh was so contagious that you’d find yourself laughing along with her. She was always ready to make you a meal and when she made a meal she made enough for an army. She had the most generous heart that led to helping anyone in need. Because of her love for shopping, you could often find her, her daughter Sandy, and best friend Vetra, in Boscov’s or Walmart on any given day.
As her journey on this earth has come to an end she is just beginning to live her life in heaven where Elbert was surely waiting with open arms. Her love of gospel music and lighthouses will never be forgotten. She always had a song on her lips and Jesus in her heart.
We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Wicomico Nursing Home and their administrative staff, nursing staff, and her nurse Tina for their loving care of Drusilla.
Drusilla’s celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, August 7th at LiFT Church with Pastor and grandson Drew Freyder officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral at 10am. The funeral service will begin at 11am. A graveside service will be held at Wicomico Memorial Park at 2pm.
Donations can be made in Drusilla’s name to LiFT Church at 2410 N Salisbury Blvd, Salisbury, MD 21801.
Dru’s vibrant spirit and unending love will be deeply missed but forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
