Dec. 28, 1930 – Nov. 24, 2013
Gloria Elkins, 78, died peacefully Nov. 24, 2013 at her home, after a long and fulfilling life, with her husband Joseph by her side.
She was born Dec. 28, 1930 to James and Hilda Barry in New Pine Creek. The Barry family was one of the early pioneer families in Lake County. She and her two siblings grew up on a ranch 30 miles from the nearest town, without electricity, running water or medical care nearby. The family epitomized the self reliance and independence of the early ranch pioneers in Lake County.
Recognized as a bright child, she was sent to Lakeview so she could attend high school. With the help of a Daly scholarship, she attended Oregon State University, and then the University of Oregon, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
Having attended both schools, Mrs. Elkins was one of the few Oregonians who could claim to have never lost a Civil War football game. She taught one year at Seaside, and then joined Sweet Home High School as a teacher and guidance counselor. She met her future husband, Joseph Elkins, in 1954 and they were married later that same year, starting a loving marriage that lasted 59 years.
They lived in Sweet Home for many years before moving to a family property near Lebanon. After a long and distinguished career at SHHS, Mrs. Elkins retired and traveled the world with her husband, visiting Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Far East.
Besides travel, she was also an avid bridge player and belonged to several Sweet Home and Lebanon bridge groups.
Mrs. Elkins was also active in the Sweet Home chapter of the P.E.O. for many years. She was a remarkable woman who lived a long and fulfilling life. She touched many lives in a positive way both as a high school counselor helping her students and also her many friends and family. She was a wonderful and loving wife, mother, and grandmother.
Mrs. Elkins is survived by her husband Joe; sons Craig and Barry; five grandchildren; and her sister Genevieve.
She was preceded in death by her brother, James Barry.
A memorial service was held Nov. 27, 2013 at the Sweet Home United Methodist Church.
Memorial contributions can be made in her honor to the Sweet Home public library in care of Huston-Jost Funeral Home, 86 W. Grant St., Lebanon, OR 97355.