Gloria Gilde Konefal, 87, of Bedford, NH died Monday August 7, 2023 at home with complications from rapid atrial fibrillation and pneumonia. Gloria was born in Paterson, NJ on December 23, 1935, the daughter of the late Peter and Helen Gilde. She was raised and educated in New Jersey.
Gloria was raised with a focus on education. She graduated from Wheaton College in Illinois with a BA in Biology in 1957 and obtained her masters in English and another in education from Rivier College in Nashua. Throughout her long career in education, she taught English at Daniel Webster College in Nashua, NH, then English at Hollis High School and was an adjunct professor at Hesser College and Franklin Pierce College until retirement at nearly 80.
She was an accomplished pianist, playing recitals throughout her youth. She also played the organ for her church. She continued playing piano until her time of death moving her beloved Yamaha grand piano (given her by her daughter in 1983) into her small apartment and was heard throughout the halls playing the hymns and classical music she so enjoyed throughout her life.
Gloria was married in 1959, a devoted wife to her life-long and eternal partner, Bob. He always called her "Doll" or "Angel" and knew in his heart that only with her was he whole. Son, Bobby, was a joyous delivery to the couple in 1961 and daughter, Lisa was welcomed in 1964. Bob and Gloria attended every swim meet throughout the kids' long involvement in sport, and both children continue to swim to this day.
Gloria continued her focus in education for her children's futures. Graduation days from college and any future successes in each of her children's careers were celebrated and a great source of pride. She enjoyed the annual family vacations at Lake Winnipesaukee, providing everlasting memories to her children. She gave her energy and spirit to family every day of her life.
Gloria was rooted in faith - a Christian, a true believer. She always prayed for her family and dear, dear friends at the Merrimack Valley Baptist Church. Gloria also found the Victory Baptist Church in Londonderry, NH where she found a new family of love, worship and fellowship. Even as her body suffered rapid heartbeats, she gave heart and soul to family, faith and friends. She was so appreciative and thankful for the most simple kindness, and the unfailing devotion of her loving husband, Bob, who returned every bit of love, faith and kindness back to her.
The family asks for your blessings during this deeply emotional loss, and respectfully hopes Gloria's life lessons of love, generosity and service to family and faith is recognized simply by your return to those YOU cherish. Our family gives us our strength in life on earth. Our faith gives what you take onward...
Gloria is pre-deceased by her beloved husband of 63 years, Bob Konefal. They are now together again for all eternity.
She is survived by her son Robert G. Konefal and his wife Catherine of West Orange, NJ, her daughter, Lisa Guymont and her husband Ralph of Windham, NH, two grandchildren, RJ Konefal of Portland, OR, and Sarah Brigid Konefal of Providence, RI. She is also survived by her only sibling, her sister Priscilla of MN, as well as nephews Dan, Steve and John, and niece, Beth.
There are no calling hours. There will be a brief graveside service held on Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 10:00am at the NH State Veteran’s Cemetery, Route 3, Boscawen, NH.