Gladys Louise Flynn

AVON LAKE – Gladys Louise Flynn (nee Cumler), 84, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, April 2, at New Life Hospice Center, Lorain. Born on June 14th, 1930 in Lakewood, Ohio, she was raised by loving parents, Howard and Viola (nee Geode) Cumler.
Gladys sang for many years in the Avon Lake United Church of Christ Chancel Choir, where she was a member since moving to Avon Lake in 1955. Although she prided herself as being a "domestic engineer", she worked at the Avon Lake City Pool as a life guard and instructor for several summers. She was an avid golfer, both in a Friday evening couple's league and the Tuesday Ladies league. Even after her health prevented her from being on the course, she continued to have "lunch with the girls" every Tuesday.
Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her world. Mom always supported her children with their activities; band, choir, sports, Girl Scouts. Grandma followed and encouraged her grandchildren's lives, attending sporting, vocal and award events. Seeing, or even just hearing about her great-grandchildren always brought a smile to her face, regardless of how she was feeling.
Gladys demonstrated independence and a love for learning. She was very proud of the fact that she continued her education as an adult, graduating with an Associate Degree from Lorain County Community College as well as a certificate in Medical Assisting. Her children are so thankful for the many lessons that she taught them by good example.
Gladys and her beloved husband Howard D. Flynn enjoyed traveling whether it was to a football game to watch grandsons play, to Bay Point for a relaxing summer weekend, or to China or Turkey to experience the culture (because a daughter or grandson were there). Howard died in 2010 after 61 years of marriage, so it will be a sweet reunion in heaven for them. She was also predeceased by her parents and dear brother Howard R.Cumler.
She is survived by her three daughters, Sandra Gerhan and Nancy Daniels (Larry) both of Avon Lake, and Deborah Henderson of Port Clinton; six grandchildren, Rebecca Whitt (Matt), Jacob Gerhan (fiancé Devon), Brad Daniels, Adam Henderson (Laura), Jennifer Henderson, and Stephanie Henderson; and six great-grandchildren, Aryanna Henderson-Miller, Madeline Whitt, Odin Crum, Olivia Crum, Griffin Crum, JR Whitt, and Hailey Henderson who is expected in June.
A memorial service will be held at the Avon Lake United Church of Christ, 32801 Electric Blvd. on Saturday, April 11 at 11:30 AM. Reverend Kelly Brill will officiate. Memorial contributions can be made to the Avon Lake United Church of Christ or Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Northeast Ohio Chapter, 6100 Rockside Woods Suite 445, Independence OH 44131 or to a favorite charity. 440-933-3202 www.buschcares.com