Gladys Gasparino (née O’Keefe, formerly Woolley)

Perth Amboy, NJ – It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for the life she lived that we announce the peaceful passing of Gladys Gasparino on June 3, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on September 4, 1942, Gladys was surrounded by her loving daughters as she departed this world from the comfort of her home. Born to Gladys and Martin O'Keefe, in Perth Amboy, NJ, she was predeceased by her cherished parents and her beloved husband, Frank (Frankie) Gasparino, whom she wed in April 1994. Their love story was one of companionship and adventure, traveling extensively across the USA by car and rail. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter in their villa at Coquina Cove, Coral Springs, until Frank's passing in January 2010. Gladys was a beacon of knowledge and nurturing, having graduated from Red Bank Catholic High School in 1959 and later earning her degree in education from Newark State College (now Kean University). Her career as an elementary school teacher spanned across Indiana, New Jersey, and even Kirkcaldy, Scotland, where she taught during the family’s time abroad. Her passion for education and zeal for life knew no geographical bounds, as she imparted wisdom and joy to her students across continents. In 1981, Gladys settled in Coral Springs, FL, following a move to Puebla, Mexico, and a brief return to the States. Here, she embraced a new chapter, transitioning her career to become a Medical Assistant. Her partnership with Dr. Robert Berman at Broward Family Medical Clinic was legendary, where her organizational prowess and dedication earned her the affectionate nickname "Red," a nod to her vibrant Irish red hair. She retired in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and excellence. Gladys's life was rich with connections, from her devoted sister, Margaret (Peggy) Davidson, and her husband Wayne, to her cousin Pat Murphy. She leaves behind her children: Denny Woolley (Kristine), Pat Woolley Moldovan (Marinel), Karen Woolley Harper (William "Tripp"), and Lynne Woolley Griffin (Richard). Her legacy continues through her nine grandchildren: Tara Woolley Smith, Erin Woolley Hoffman, Mitchell Woolley, Andrew Griffin, TJ Harper, Daniel Griffin, Patrick Griffin, JC Harper, and George Moldovan, and six great-grandchildren, Lucy, Wesley, Jacob, Gracie, and twins Luke and Lillian. Her nephews, Michael and Alan Davidson, niece Mary Davidson Lutz, and her dear friends, the "Gadabout Gals" — Jane Barricelli, Diane Belusar, Lori Donovan, and Olivia Goodman — will cherish her memory. An organizer and planner at heart, Gladys was active in the Coquina Home Owners Association, where she helped mold the community. Her adventurous spirit took her and her "Gadabouts" on trips from the villas of southern France to camelback rides in Morocco. A pillar of strength, Gladys bravely faced life's challenges, having battled cancer twice before confronting Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) with her characteristic grace and determination. She was a relentless fighter, a quality that inspired her family and friends. Her warmth and wisdom touched all who knew her, especially her grandchildren, with whom she shared invaluable life lessons, often delivered with a touch of humor and political insight. A celebration of Gladys's life will be held on June 19, 2026, at 9:00 AM at Kraeer Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 1655 University Drive, Coral Springs, FL 33071-6026. The service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person at www.kraeercoralsprings.com. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation at komen.org. The family extends heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of support from friends and loved ones, some relationships spanning over 60 years. As we gather to celebrate Gladys’s remarkable life, may we all remember the difference she made and the love she so generously shared.