Gladys Joann Nicolard

Gladys Joann Nicolard, 93, of Canal Fulton, passed away on March 13, 2026. Born in Akron, Ohio, to the late Minnie Bell and William Nathan Klepper, she was a lifelong resident of Canal Fulton and a faithful member of Towpath Family Church of the Nazarene.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, Louis Nicolard, her infant son Louis Samuel Nicolard, granddaughter Stephanie Houser, grandson Eddie Watson, and son-in-law Bill Rott. Gladys is survived by her children Louisa “Cricket” Rott, Pamela Nicolard, Machelle (Jim) Okey, and Louis “Sam” (Diana) Nicolard; her grandchildren Doug “Jersey” (Betty) Nicolardi, Connie (Jeff) Lacap, Jason Moore, Justin (Angie) Moore, Naomi (Dana) Smith, Dominic Watson, Jason (Anna) Straight, Janelle (Justin) Harris, Josh (Stephanie) Straight, Tiffany Nicolard, and Samuel (Jessica) Nicolard; 24 great-grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren, and one more on the way.

Gladys never knew a stranger and welcomed everyone into her home and her heart. She loved hosting family picnics and gatherings, where her playful orneriness always brought laughter. She had a special gift with children, who were naturally drawn to her warmth and kindness. She cherished her church family, especially the Tuesday Night Ladies Night group, and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is now reunited with her beloved Louis and the family members who went before her. Those who loved her find comfort in knowing they will see her again.