Laretia Mae Gillingham

Laretia Mae Gillingham

Laretia Mae (Nelson) Gillingham passed away on April 8, 2024 at the age of 96, in Fresno while residing at Nazareth House.  Laretia was born August 25, 1927 to Louis Nelson and Foneta (Newcomb) Nelson in Waitsburg, Washington.  Laretia was preceded in death by her husband of 74 years, Howard Eugene, her parents, her sisters Anita and Betty, and brothers Robert and Leonard, and her oldest daughter Barbara.

She is survived by her daughters Marilyn Gillingham, Sharon (John) Brunner, Colette Gillingham (Kevin Gardner), and Margaret (Charles) Cybry, and brother Tom Nelson.  She also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and 2 great great-grandchild.

Laretia lived in the greater Fresno and Bay areas with her husband Gene before moving to Wisconsin in 1960.  Laretia and Gene retired back to Fresno in 1988 and volunteered full time at Nazareth House.  She was recognized by the volunteer community for her service.  Laretia and Gene have been full time residents at Nazareth House since 2010.

A Memorial Mass will be held Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at Nazareth House chapel in Fresno, 2121 N First St, Fresno, California.  Mass will begin at 9:30 a.m.  A private burial at Reedley Cemetery will follow.

Please send donations in remembrance to Nazareth House, 2121 N First St, Fresno CA 93703, in lieu of flowers.