Gladys Tonnies

Gladys Olivia Tonnies, 83, of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, passed away on March 14, 2026.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, Norman Tonnies; their three children, Rich Tonnies and his wife Julie of Nazareth, Pennsylvania, Jill Tonnies and her partner Randy Edwards of Coplay, Pennsylvania, and Wendy Tonnies of Whitehall, Pennsylvania; her sister, Thelma Virkler; ten grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Born in New Jersey, Gladys worked as a secretary for many years. She found special purpose as Executive Assistant to the director at Market Street Mission in Morristown, New Jersey, where she connected with and supported men in the program as they worked through addiction. After moving to Bethlehem, she continued her quiet service in the office at Calvary Baptist Church, where she and Norman were longtime members.

Gladys cherished time at the beach, especially her beloved Long Beach Island, where she and Norman welcomed their children, grandchildren, and friends each summer. She also found joy in tending her roses and simply being surrounded by family.