Gladys Evelyn Young

In Loving Memory of Gladys Evelyn Young

Gladys Evelyn Young celebrated her 99th birthday on December 13, 2023, and peacefully passed away one week later. Born in 1924 to Dessie and William Starkey, she was one of five siblings and proudly graduated from Pike High School. Throughout her life, she exemplified the values of compassion, dedication, and selflessness.

A resident of New Augusta in Pike Township for most of her life, Gladys held fond memories of the community. She married Gerald Young in 1945, and together they shared 51 years of a loving marriage until his passing in 1997.

Gladys is survived by her son, Ron Young (Susie) of Indianapolis, and daughter, Jane Shugart (Kim) of Fairhope, Alabama. Her legacy continues through her five grandchildren who lovingly knew her as “Happy Mamaw”: Shelli Semiklose (Aaron), Shaun Shugart (Lauren), Laura Jones (Matt), Justin Shugart (Amy), and Kristin Toner (Daniel). Additionally, she is remembered by seven great-grandchildren (Sanders and Hutch Semiklose, Ellis and Dorothy Jones, Hampton and Rayford Shugart, Oliver Shugart) and numerous nieces and nephews.

Gladys was a member of Tri Kappa and New Hope Church, where her faith played an essential role in her life. She found immense joy in serving others, a passion that defined her life. Her commitment to volunteer work was a source of inspiration for all who knew her.

Gladys will be remembered not only for her longevity but for her love of playing cards, especially euchre. She was known also for all the various hats that she sported so well! Mostly though, the love Gladys shared, the lives she touched, and the lasting impact she had on her community will be her legacy.

A "Celebration of Life" in honor of Gladys will be held March 16, 2024, providing an opportunity for family and friends to gather and reflect on the impact she had on their lives. The family kindly requests that donations in her memory be made to the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation Indiana Chapter 5325 East 82nd Street #252 Indianapolis, IN 46250, reflecting Gladys’s commitment to helping others. If you are donating by check, please put "Gladys Young" in the memo.

Psalm 116:15, “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.”