Obituary of Gloria Joan Schaefer-Sudduth

Gloria Sudduth, beloved wife, mother, sister, and aunt, left this world on November 19 at the age of 78 after battling cancer for the third time. Born in Salt Lake City, Gloria moved to San Francisco as a young child. At age 15, she married her high school sweetheart, Dennis Sudduth, who died in a military accident two years later. Gloria found herself a widow at age 17 with two small children to care for. This tragedy would have broken anyone else, but not Gloria. Indomitable in spirit, Gloria built a life for herself and her children, working to support her family and waiting 13 years to remarry. Her second husband, Donald Schaefer, developed MS shortly after their marriage, and Gloria once again met life head-on and took on the role of caretaker. Gloria's passion for her family colored everything she did-family was central in her life. But she was also caring and generous with everyone in her sphere. The old saying fit her: "She'd give you the shirt off her back." But in her case, the shirt was always a leopard print. Yes, Gloria was also known for her Kim-Novak beauty, her style, and her fashion sense, something she hung onto until the very end. Gloria will be remembered for her strong will and determination-she never gave up, even when faced with a third bout of cancer. This petite woman had more fighting spirit than her beloved 49ers or even the Africa wildlife that she loved so much. And through it all, she never lost her sense of humor. Gloria loved to laugh. Gloria is survived by her daughter, Dolores Sudduth, her son, Michael Sudduth, son-in-law Tim McNiff, brother Ron Frazier, his wife Gloria, and numerous nieces. Being an devout animal lover, it's only right to also mention the pets in Gloria's life: Yankee, Rocket, Ramona, and Lil' Ninja. The family wishes to thank Hospice of Santa Cruz and Santa Cruz Skilled Nursing for all the wonderful care they gave Gloria in her final months-their love, their support, their willingness to work around the dozen or so stuffed giraffes-it will never be forgotten. A service will be held on Tuesday, November 27 at Golden Gate National Cemetery, 1300 Sneath Lane, San Bruno, Ca 94006, beginning at 1 o'clock p.m. after which Gloria will be interred with her husband, the love of her life. Gloria did not want a big sendoff. Gloria's last wish, which she was unable to fulfill, was to hug a giraffe. If you would like to remember Gloria in some way, please make a donation to a wildlife rescue, preferably one that cares for giraffes and zebras. Gloria is in heaven now, and we're sure she's finally getting that hug.