Gladys Hudak

Gladys Ann Hudak, age 76, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 29, 2026. She was born on May 6, 1949, and was the beloved daughter of the late William P. Hudak and Esther Jane (Stone) Hudak.

Gladys built a long and meaningful career with Sam's Club, beginning in Pennsylvania and continuing in Dade City, Florida, where she eventually retired. She was deeply respected for her leadership and brought pride, kindness, and a steady dedication to her work, touching the lives of many along the way.

A quiet and steady presence, Gladys was deeply cherished by those who knew her best. Her spirit was marked by compassion, generosity, and unwavering devotion to the people she loved. She was a source of sound reason and thoughtful advice, always offering the kind of listening ear people felt safe turning to.

Gladys treasured authentic connection and found comfort in facetoface interaction—or simply hearing a familiar voice. One of her favorite pastimes was reminiscing, joyfully revisiting treasured memories with those she held dear. She devoted much of her life to her nieces and nephews alongside her sister and best friend, Joyce. Together, "The Aunts" created countless memories with them through vacations and special trips, where sleepy children were awakened each morning with Gladys's iconic and joyful call of, "Rise and Shine!"

She was survived by her beloved sister, Joyce M. Hudak; three nieces, Carrie A. Hudak, Dana L. Levenson, and JaneAnn Marie Grimes; one nephew, William J. Hudak; two great-nephews, Manuel G. Stoupis and Maverick J. Madeya; as well as many cousins and an extended family of dear friends who meant the world to her.

Gladys was preceded in death by her brothers, William E. Hudak and Robert P. Hudak; her sister, Theresa J. Hudak; and her great nephew, Daniel J. Ling.

She didn't express her love through grand gestures, but through quiet devotion, unwavering presence, and care that never asked for recognition. A celebration of Gladys's life will be announced at a later date.

"To live on in the hearts we leave behind is not to die." - Thomas Campbell