Louise A. Slama

Slama Louise A. (née Schilgen) Affectionately known as Lou or GML (GrandMa Lou), passed away peacefully on July 19, 2024, at Waverly Heights, in Gladwyne, PA, at the remarkable age of 105. Valvular heart disease led to her very recent decline. Born on August 6, 1918, in Brooklyn, N.Y., Louise's journey through life was marked by her insatiable curiosity and boundless generosity, traits that endeared her to all who knew her. Louise graduated from Overbrook High School in Philadelphia in 1936, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science from Drexel Institute of Technology in 1940. She married Richard C. Slama in 1941, after they met at Drexel. They resided at 41 Narbrook Park, in Narberth, for over 70 years. Louise was on the Centennial Celebration Committee for the 2015 Centennial of Narbrook Park. After raising her family, she went on to earn a Masters of Science in Education from the University of Pennsylvania in 1967. She obtained a Secondary Guidance Counselor Certificate in 1972, at the age of 54. She dedicated 16 wonderful years as a guidance counselor at Plymouth Whitemarsh Junior High School and retired at age 70. Beyond her professional life, Louise had a rich tapestry of interests. She was an avid sewer, enjoyed antiquing, and was a seasoned traveler. Her adventures took her to East Africa twice, Italy, and various destinations across Europe, as well as Martha's Vineyard, and the Jersey Shore. She also cherished trips with her grandchildren to Alaska (Caroline), Tanzania (Tif), and the Grenadines (Hilary), creating lasting memories. She will miss her New York Times, especially the crossword puzzles, that she enjoyed up to her final weeks. Also, MSNBC and her beloved Rachel. Louise is survived by her loving sons, Richard C. Slama, Jr., of Wynnewood, PA, and Robert D. Slama, and daughter-in-law, Sharon, of Summit, NJ; five grandchildren, Hilary Seeley (Bill Seeley) of San Mateo, CA, Richard L. Slama, of Seattle, Edward Slama (Kim Blackman) of Wynnewood, PA., Christopher ("Tif") Slama (Bruk Addis) of Maplewood, NJ, and Caroline Slama (Nat Lownes), of Philadelphia; and ten great-grandchildren, Lydia, Joseph, Mark, and Gregory Slama; Adele and Zoe Slama; Olivia and Calvin Seeley; and Beza and Tadesse ("Tadu") Slama. She was preceded in death by her parents, William J. and Louise (Cormier) Schilgen; her former husband, Richard C. Slama; brothers, William and John "Jack" Schilgen; and daughter-in-law, Yrminda Fortes Slama. A memorial service will be held in Fall 2024, with details to be announced later. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Philabundance.org in memory of Louise, to honor her spirit of generosity and support for those in need.