Gloria Lee Fry

Gloria Fry passed away peacefully at home on March 7, 2025. She was born in Comstock in 1930, the daughter of John Ellsworth and Margaret (Messany) Pearson and graduated from there.

In April of 1950, Gloria married J. William “Bill” Fry. Her frugal nature and long hours at Argus Camera ensured Bill’s graduation from the University of Michigan Medical School. In 1957, he was drafted into the Navy as a medical officer. They moved to Long Beach, California with a toddler, Steve and a baby, Susie. Warm weather and supportive neighbors made the time alone easier.

When they returned to Kalamazoo, Bill opened a private practice in family medicine. Gloria dedicated her life to her family: volunteering as a “room mother” and supporting her children’s interests, independence and education. She was so proud of their accomplishments.

As empty-nesters, they moved to Richland. She worked alongside Bill welcoming both the challenges and the peace that came with country living on a farm. Snowy winters were spent knitting and quilting with great attention to detail and creating intricate stained-glass projects with Bill. She treasured their breakfast gathering with friends, young and old, at the Parkview Inn.

Her granddaughter, Anna, fondly remembers pillow fights, truck rides and afternoon swims. Their great grandson is grateful for their encouragement, laughs, and “history lessons”.

Gloria enjoyed long rides, watching the landscape and brief trips away. Even in their 90’s, Gloria and Bill were regularly seen visiting area stores and restaurants. She remained determined and witty.

Above all, she enjoyed simple pleasures: a spotless home, blossoming dogwoods, bluebirds, and morning coffee observing nature.

Gloria’s legacy is the strong ethical values which guided her life and were ingrained upon her children

Gloria is survived by her beloved husband Bill of nearly 75 years; two children, Stephen M. Fry M.D. and Susan F. (Michael) Schewe; three grandchildren, Anna Schewe, Peter Fry and Sally Fry; great grandson, Kayd M. Coffman; step grandchildren, Michael Schewe Jr and Kristine Kufeldt; Sister-in-law, Eleanor (Fry) Smith, nephews and nieces. She is preceded in death by her brother; Jack (Jo) Pearson of Indiatlantic, Florida.

A small family gathering will be held at a later date. Personal messages for Gloria’s family may be shared at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.