CHELSEA – Gladys M. McGuire, 95, of Chelsea, Maine, died January 1, 2022, at her home as a result of a house fire.

She was born in East Union, Maine, on July 5, 1926, the daughter of George and Leila (Harris) Layr. Gladys was one of five siblings.

On February 11, 1950, Gladys was united in marriage to Charles McGuire in Union, Maine. Together, they eventually made their home in Chelsea, where Gladys lived until her death. Gladys worked at Gray Birch Nursing Home until her retirement after 35 years of service as a Dietary Aid. Upon her retirement, Gladys spent time with friends and family going out to eat, shopping, and walking the Kennebec River rail trail which she enjoyed greatly, and could walk many miles. Gladys had a great love of nature. Her birds, squirrels, and chipmunks around her home were very hearty. She also loved dogs. Gladys was a very independent person, and lived a very simple but fun life. She also loved ice cream. If asked what flavor she would like, her response was, “Oh, anything. Ice cream is ice cream!” Gladys sense of humor and great wit was what made people laugh. Gladys also read the bible daily. She often shared positive quotes with others.

Gladys will be greatly missed by her community, friends, and family.

She was predeceased by her parents; husband Charles A. McGuire; four siblings; nephew Douglas McGuire; brother in law Cecil McGuire, and wife Ella V McGuire.

Gladys is survived by her great niece Andrea; husband Kurt, and three children, Jamien Douglas, Chloe Margaret, and Halle Kristelle Hallowell. Her niece by marriage Janice L. McGuire, and a very fond friend Arlene Rodrick.

To fulfill Glady’s wishes there will be no services and burial will be beside her husband at the Old Maine Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in the Spring.

Arrangements are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website: http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

In memory of Gladys, donations may be made to your local Animal Shelter.