Gloria "Jean" Conkling

Gloria "Jean" Conkling, age 79, of Dona Vista, Florida, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2024. Born on June 12, 1945, to Bill and Lola Vanzant, Jean grew up in Mount Dora and graduated from Mount Dora High School. She dedicated much of her life to caring for others as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), embodying compassion and grace in everything she did. Jean's greatest passions in life were her family, her faith, and bringing people together. She was deeply devoted to her loved ones and cherished family gatherings, where her spunky wit and caring heart were always present. A devout Christian, Jean found joy and strength in her faith, participating actively in Bible studies and serving as a beloved member of Victory Church in Dona Vista whenever her health allowed. Those who knew Jean remember her as a saintly figure-a kind, witty, and spirited soul who left a lasting impact on everyone she met. Her legacy of love, faith, and resilience will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. Jean is survived by her son, Danny Dehn (Ilse); her daughter, BJ Wilfong (Alan) stepson, Nate Conkling (Robyn) and her twin brother, Tommy Vanzant; her grandchildren, Austin Shepherd, Max Shepherd, Amanda Mixon, and Chris Conkling; three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Conkling; her parents, Bill and Lola Vanzant; her siblings, Hilda Ogden and Billy Vanzant; her great-niece, Sue-Ellen Anselmo; and many other loved ones she will now reunite with in Heaven. A graveside service to celebrate Jean's life will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Lakeside Memory Gardens in Eustis, Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Cornerstone Hospice in Jean's memory, honoring her legacy of care and compassion. Jean's faith, love, and boundless spirit will forever be missed but never forgotten.