Obituary of Gloria P. McDonald

Gloria P. McDonald, a resident of Port Washington for over 50 years, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 25, 2013. Born September 9, 1928 in Manhattan, she graduated high school at the age of 16 and a half, and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business from City College in 1951. Gloria was a bookkeeper for Imperial Textile Inc. on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan where she was also known to shop during her lunch hours. She was broadcast on live television in the mid-1950s, as she tried on hats and struck a jaunty pose, a proud moment for the stunning and vibrant young woman. Gloria was a longtime member and officer for the Karma Club – a group of professionals and friends who resided in her area of Brooklyn who gathered to exchange ideas, share interests and celebrate milestones in their lives. Gloria was married to the late Thomas P. McDonald, and together raised three children in Port Washington. She was a devoted mother, and proud Nannie and biggest fan and supporter to her grandsons – Sean, Zachary, Christopher, Scott, Gregory and Dylan. Remembered for her quick wit, beaming smile, and elegant way with words, Gloria had an uncanny ability to remember the date of every major event for her extended family of over 50 people, and never missed sending a card or placing a phone call to commemorate. She was a true friend to all who knew and loved her, and will be sorely missed by scores of people from around the world. Mrs. McDonald is survived by her children: Linda Nibert (Richard) of Oyster Bay, NY; Glenn McDonald (Barbara) of Holtsville, NY; Carole Gilmour (Paul) of Severna Park, MD; stepdaughter Diane Blackmore (Denis) and son John of Maplewood, NJ; her brother Noel (Evlyn), sisters-in-law Gisele and Jackie, brother-in-law David, as well as many loving nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Thomas and her brother Dennis. Arrangements are entrusted to Fairchild and Sons Funeral Chapel in Manhasset, NY. Visitation is Tuesday, October 1 from 3-5:00pm and 7-9:00 pm and Wednesday, October 2 from 3-5:00pm and 7-9:00pm, with a Christian service being held at 8:00 pm. Burial will be at Locust Valley Cemetery on Thursday, October 3 at 11am. While flowers will be gratefully received by the family, donations to a charity or non-profit organization of your choice in lieu of flowers would also be appreciated, as would the simple planting of a flowering shrub in your garden in Gloria’s name.