Gordon D. Gladden, 83
Gordon D. Gladden, a beloved husband and father, accomplished businessman, and respected community leader, passed away at his home in Salisbury, MD, on January 10, 2024. Born on February 4, 1940, in Baltimore, MD, to Elbert and Chlora (Causey) Gladden. Gordon spent his childhood in the small Chesapeake Bay town of Chance, MD.
Gordon is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Mary Sue Gladden; his daughter, Missy Gladden; and his son, David Gladden, and daughter-in-law, Tara Gladden. He is preceded in death by his parents, Elbert Gladden, Sr. and Chlora Gladden; and his brother, Elbert Gladden Jr.
Gordon began his career at Union Trust Bank, but left in 1972 to work for, and be the successor to, Mr. Avery Hall. Gordon had a distinguished career at Avery Hall Insurance, eventually serving as President of the company until his retirement in 2004.
Gordon was passionate about community service and his list of civic accomplishments is extensive. He was a dedicated member of the Rotary Club for over 50 years. He was a past President of the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce, President of Salisbury Wicomico Economic Development, and President of the Salisbury Rotary Club as well as of the Salisbury Rotary Foundation. He was Chairman of the Administrative Board at Trinity United Methodist Church, and an Officer at Greater Salisbury. He served on the YMCA Board of Directors for almost 25 years, and was a board member on the John B. Parsons Foundation for more than 35 years. He served on the Board of Go-Getters and Coastal Hospice, and served as Chairman of the Board of Directors at both Peninsula Regional Medical Center and the Richard Henson Foundation. He was President at Green Hill Country Club and was Chairman of several fund drives in the community, including Wor-Wic Community College and the Rotary Club.
Gordon was the proud owner of the Ida May, a Chesapeake Bay Skipjack built in 1906. His dedication to preserving this piece of maritime history brought him much joy, especially when the Ida May claimed victory in the iconic Skipjack Races in Deal Island and Cambridge.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, January 17 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Salisbury, MD, with visitation starting at 9 a.m. Internment took place at Wicomico Memorial Park. Relatives and friends were welcome at the Jackson Memorial Building, next to Trinity at 11 a.m. for a catered reception.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Skipjack Heritage Museum, 23529 Deal Island Rd. Chance, MD 21821