Gladys L. Musselwhite, 72, of Arcadia, Fla., passed away Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2013.

She was born Oct. 13, 1940, in Arcadia, and has resided in DeSoto County, Fla., all of her life.

During her working years, Gladys was employed by the former G. Pierce Wood Memorial Hospital, and Publix Supermarket on Merritt Island, Fla. Her greatest title was that of being a loving wife, mother, grandma, homemaker and friend. Gladys was “The Rock” of the family, and extended her care and love to many children from broken homes of DeSoto County. She was very giving of herself and of her time. Gladys loved fishing and animals, spoiling her pets. She was a member of Church of God Nocatee, Fla., the same church where she met and married her husband, Carl Y. Musselwhite, 54 years ago.

Gladys is survived by her beloved husband, Carl Y. Musselwhite of Arcadia; son, Carl R. “Rick” Musselwhite of Arcadia; daughters, Pamela Rolon, Patricia (Cecil) Daughtrey and Joyce Backer, all of Arcadia; mother, Edna H. Smith of Arcadia; brother, James M. “Jim” (Loretta) Smith of Winchester, Tenn.; sister, Audrey Ganious of Arcadia; aunt, Ovedia Blocker of Arcadia; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, James V. Smith.

A visitation will be held at 10 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013, at Church of God Nocatee, with Pastor John Spratlin officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Online condolences can be made at www.pongerkaysgrady.com.

Arrangements are by Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Home, Arcadia.