Gloria Ann Carleton

Gloria Goettl Carleton, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away on November 17, 2025, at the age of 93. Gloria was a wise, caring, strong, and resilient woman who touched the lives of many through her kindness and dedication.

Gloria was born on July 21, 1932 in Mansfield, Ohio. She was the daughter of Adam Goettl and Eva Hergatt Goettl.

In her early life, Gloria moved with her family to Phoenix, Arizona, due in part to her asthma. She pursued her education in Arizona, graduating from West Phoenix High School. Gloria went on to receive her Bachelor's Degree in Arts & Education from Arizona State College at Tempe in 1954.

Gloria married C. Alan Carleton, also a teacher, in May, 1954. They shared 36 years of marriage together.

Gloria dedicated her professional life to teaching, serving as an educator from 1954 to 1990. She taught early childhood through 8th grade, the majority at Unit 4 Melvin E. Sine School in the Glendale Elementary School District. Known for her positive and effective teaching methods, Gloria was always a teacher at heart. In addition to her teaching career, she spent several years as a real estate agent, selling homes as a side job.

In her personal life, Gloria had a passion for travel, exploring extensively with her family from California to Washington DC, and she especially cherished her visits to Hawaii. In her later years, she enjoyed collecting pottery, Disney memorabilia, dolls, TY Beanie Babies, and solving Find-a-Word Puzzles. She loved animals, especially cats.

Gloria was actively involved in her community, serving on the governing board of the Manzanita Senior Center and the Helen Drake Senior Center. She was also a member of the West Olive Church of Christ.

Gloria is survived by her children, Carol (Eric) Williamson and Catherine (Eric) Carpenter, as well as four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband C. Alan Carleton, and her son David Carleton.

Her legacy of love, strength, and wisdom will continue to inspire those who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Monday, December 22, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at West Resthaven Funeral Home; 6450 W. Northern Avenue in Glendale, Arizona