Gladys Keener

With hearts full of gratitude and sorrow, the family of Gladys Keener announces her peaceful passing on June 26, 2026, in her lifelong hometown of Washington, Pennsylvania, at the age of 90. Born on March 6, 1936, also in Washington, Gladys’s journey was deeply entrenched in the very community where she first opened her eyes to the world—a place she cherished and served in countless ways throughout her long and meaningful life, she worked for 25+ years at Washington County Health Center.  

Gladys was the beloved daughter of Robert Davidson and Dorothy (Wilson) Davidson, both of whom preceded her in death. Her childhood in Washington was marked by a blessings-filled home and a spiritual upbringing that found its anchor when, at the tender age of eight, Gladys became a devoted member of the Washington Glenn Street Free Methodist Church. This early bond with her faith guided her daily actions, and her generosity of spirit was a constant source of comfort and compassion to all she came across.

Those who knew Gladys best remember her as a kind soul whose humor could lighten any heavy day. She had a deep reservoir of strength, always leading with a gentle hand and a warm, ready smile. Her hard-working nature set an example for generations, but it was her steadfast helpfulness and uncommonly big heart that endeared her to so many. Gladys was truly unique, possessing the rare gift of making others feel seen and special, no matter their circumstances.

Through decades both triumphant and trying, Gladys’s unwavering devotion to family defined her. She is survived by her loving children: daughters Candy (late Terry) Craft, Ginger Burrows, Wanda Bayer, and son David Keener. Her presence will live on in the hearts of her grandchildren—Brittany Burrows, Sarah Maskil, Ashley (Andrew) Simmons, Erica (Jeff) Monoskey, Ryan Cargnello, Megan (Josh) Bowers, Adam (Alexa) Bayer, Samantha (Michael) Bornak, Heath Gizoni, Daniel Gizoni, David Keener, Brandy Keener, and Brody Keener—seventeen cherished great-grandchildren, four adored great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who counted her as their guiding star.

Gladys shared a special bond with her sister, Helen (late Jerry) Martin. While she mourned deeply for those who went before her —her parents and 9 siblings, her loving husband David Keener, her precious daughter Kathy Hartzell, and her son-in-law Stephen “Stymie” Hartzell—Gladys always honored their memories by living with remarkable hope and abiding love.

The legacy of Gladys Keener is one of kindness, resilience, and generosity. Though words can scarcely capture the full breadth of her spirit, those touched by her warmth will forever carry her lessons of selflessness and good humor in their hearts.

Her laughter now echoes in our memories and her loving wisdom lives on with each person she touched. Gladys Keener’s story continues in the love she leaves behind.

As per Gladys's wishes she will be laid to rest privately at Forest Lawn Garden next to her beloved husband.