Gladys E. Gray

Mrs. Gladys E. Gray, 88, of 113 Racquette Point Road, Rooseveltown, NY., died peacefully Friday afternoon, July 31, 2009, surrounded by her family, at the Highland Nursing Home. She had been a patient since November 2008.

She was born August 26, 1920, in Toronto, Ontario, the daughter of the late James and Ida (Mitchell) Thompson Sr. She attended schools in Bombay and Buffalo. Gladys was a sewer at Tru-Stitch Mocassin Factory in Bombay for 38 years, retiring in 1978. She was one of the first to teach Mohawk language at the Akwesasne Freedom School and was known as “Tota” to the children. She also translated the Indian language. She enjoyed playing Bingo, cards and doing her puzzles. She loved her dog “Candy” and many other dogs, and all the get togethers with her family. Gladys gave to the native schools for the homeless. She was a member of the Senior Citizens and Humane Society

She is survived by one daughter and son-in-law, Hope and John Wheelock, Rooseveltown, NY

1 son Wendell R. King, Sr. Racquette Point, NY, a daughter-in-law Julia A. King, Akwesasne, 6 grandchildren, Wendell King Jr., Douglas King, Crystal King, Jennifer King, William King, Robert King., 2 great grandsons, Douglas Joseph Jr. and William King Jr., 5 great granddaughters, Keisha, Kayla ,Kayianna,, Brandee and Gracie, Many nieces and nephews

She was predeceased by her companion Joseph P. King, Dec. 17, 1973, 3 brothers James A. Thompson Jr., Jan. 17,1973 and Vance and Clifford in infancy, a step-son Peter J. King, July 4, 1977.

Friends may call at the Longhouse in Hogansburg starting Sunday evening until the time of the funeral services which will be held at 11:00 am Tuesday.

Burial will take place at Mohawk Rest Haven Cemetery, Hogansburg, NY.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Senior Citizens, Freedom School or the Animal Shelter.

Condolences may be made at http://www.donaldsonfh.com.