Mrs. Gloria J Deckard, of Dunedin, FL, passed away on Thursday, June 4, 2020 at the age of 76. Gloria was born to parents, Wilbur and Frances Lorene Zittrauer on October 3, 1943 in Selma, AL. She grew up the eldest of three children in a Christian home. She graduated from Chamberlain High School in Tampa once the family settled there, after years of traveling for her father's career in the Air Force. Gloria married Ronald Deckard in 1966 and the couple had two children. She worked a number of part-time jobs over the years, but her primary focus was always on taking care of her home and family. Gloria absolutely loved being a wife and mother. She always made sure her family knew how much they were loved through her unwavering support, wonderful hugs and frequent phone calls just to say "I love you". Gloria never met a stranger and was always willing to share those hugs with everyone. She was full of life and laughter and never missed an opportunity to brighten the day of anyone she came across with a friendly smile and compliment. Her sense of humor and sharp wit brought laughter and joy to many people's lives.
Gloria was an avid reader. She participated in bowling and volleyball leagues for several years. She also enjoyed camping, crafting, photography and creating photo albums. She eventually developed a passion for family ancestry and lovingly documented our family tree. Her husband, Ron became an avid horseshoe pitcher, and while she never pitched horseshoes herself, she was an active member of the Clearwater Horseshoe Club volunteering for many years in the club's concession stand. She was loved by so many and will be greatly missed.
She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Ronald L. Deckard, son, Larry Deckard and his wife, Trish of Apollo Beach, FL, daughter, Amy Deckard of Dunedin, FL, sister, Helen Turner of Bradenton, FL, and her brother, Timothy Zittrauer of Clearwater, FL and several nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her father, Wilbur E. Zittrauer, mother, Frances Lorene (McCullough) Zittrauer and step-father, William Black.
A private graveside service will be held on July 7, 2020 at 10:00 am for family at Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park, 2853 Sunset Point Road, Clearwater, FL 33759, Harbor Estates CBTS #22. A Celebration of Life in her honor and memory will be held at a later date at the Clearwater Horseshoe Club.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warriors Family Support charitable organization.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared using the "add a memory" link for the DECKARD family. Scroll down to view photos of Gloria with family and friends throughout her life.
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