Gladys Bolton

Gladys Irene Bolton July 28, 1921 – May 16, 2023 She almost made it to 102 She lived the life she wanted! Gladys Irene Bolton passed away on May 16, 2023, at Bethany of Silver Lake in Everett Washington she was 101. Glady’s was born in Statesville, NC on July 28th, 1921. Her parents, Roy Alexander and Dora Alexander moved to the Northwest when Glady’s was young to farm in Algona, Pacific City in the south end of Seattle. She had three brothers, Flake Alexander, Pat Alexander, and Roy Júnior Alexander. Glady’s maiden name, Alexander, made her proud. She loved the family she left in Statesville and communicated with them as often as possible while starting her life here in the Northwest. The family moved to Algona, Pacific City where they farmed during Mom’s growing up years. The farm was hard work and taught everyone in the family that hard work was good. Glady’s attended Auburn High School where she met the man of her dreams Tom Bolton. He was a high school athlete who received scholarships and awards in every major sport. Glady’s & Tom married and raised three children moving from the Auburn area to Ballard. They landed in Edmonds and called it home for several years. Glady’s &Tom worked in the grocery business, she worked at A&P while Dad worked at Safeway. Glady’s loved people, entertaining, arranging flowers, tea in fancy China, and gatherings. She enjoyed being the hostess and was very gifted at entertaining. Glady’s is survived by her 2 children, 6 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Richard & Robyn Bolton, Michelle Bolton, Jay & Lynnette Reilley, Grace , Gabryelle, Courtney, Patty Bolton, Larry & Shauen Quintana, Steve & Tiffanny Bodensteiner, Gage , Bergen, and Vincent Wolf. Her daughter Carole preceded her in her death. When Glady’s retired, she and Tom became part of a group that taught Ball Room Dancing on Cruise Ships. They were able to travel to Ports of Call with friends as instructors, making new friends and enjoyed their lives together. They even put on special shows to preform their dances in full costume for their grandchildren. One of the great blessings for Glady’s life was her grandson, Larry. He became her primary caregiver and took wonderful care of her for 10 years. He took wonderful care of her and did everything possible to give her the very best quality of life until her care reached a place that required 24/7 involvement. Glady’s did not get to finish like she wanted, but how many of us do. However, in her passing she was safe, loved and cared for. She will be missed by her friends and family, knowing she is far better off and is at peace. She didn’t want a memorial only for the memory of friends and family to include the good times she had with all. She will be resting next to Tom at the Edmonds cemetery at Westgate in Edmonds, 820 15th SW Edmonds, WA. 98020.