Gladys (Keeler) Whitlatch, 88, passed away peacefully in her sleep into the arms of Jesus on Friday, September 6, 2024, in her North Coventry residence. She was surrounded by love from her husband, Billy Joe Whitlatch, of 70 years, who was by her side and refused to leave her side through her illness. They were high school sweethearts who married early and raised their two children in their North Coventry home.
Along with her husband, she is survived by her daughter Jane Grimley, wife of Richard; son Gary Whitlatch, husband of Rachel; grandchildren Allen, Gavin; step-grandchildren Kelly and Eric, husband of Ashley; and great-granddaughter Allena; step-great-grandchildren Ethan, Carter, and Chloe. She was preceded by her parents, five brothers, and two sisters-in-law.
Born and raised in Pottstown, she was the daughter of the late William and Bertha (Weaver) Keeler and the youngest sibling of six children. Her five brothers, Bill, Don, Ray, Lester, and Laine, were not just siblings, but integral parts of her life. They often lived close to each other, and the families would have picnics in the backyard, playing badminton, softball, and other games. Over the years, Gladys hosted many Christmas Eve parties where her brothers and their families would gather for fun, fellowship, and gift exchanges. More than anything, Gladys cherished her time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and had a special bond with many of her nieces and nephews.
Gladys graduated from North Coventry High School and was a stay-at-home mom until she became the manager of Twin Valley Pool in the 1960s. She worked for Diamond Glass in Royersford for twenty-two years. Her passion was driving a school bus for the Owen J. Roberts school district for eighteen years. She loved her school kids, and it was easy to see that they loved her; many kept in touch with her until her recent death. She was a Sunday school teacher at Cedarville United Methodist and occasionally played the piano during a Sunday service. Gladys was also a member of Freeland Chapter #323, Order of the Eastern Star.
Gladys was not just a loving family member but also an adventurous soul. She had her own motorcycle and snowmobile and wasn't afraid to use them. She enjoyed playing games in the pool and sledding with her grandchildren, always ready for fun. Her love for games extended beyond physical activities. She loved to play cards, board games, and just about any other type of game, always bringing joy and laughter to those around her.
Gladys's life will be celebrated on Monday, September 16, 2024. Visitation will be held Monday from 10:00 to 10:45 AM at the funeral home, with a service at 11:00 AM at Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, LLC., 711 N. Franklin St., Pottstown, PA 19464. A burial will follow at Mt. Zion Cemetery, Pottstown. Family and friends are welcome to join the family for a luncheon following the burial at Cedarville Methodist, 1092 Laurelwood Road, Pottstown, PA 19465.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gladys' memory to Cedarville United Methodist Church, 1092 Laurelwood Rd., Pottstown, PA 19465.