Gloria Jean Bucholz

Gloria Jean Bucholz of Deford, age 78, went to be with her Heavenly Father on Wednesday April 15, 2026 at home. Gloria was born on April 7, 1948 in Traverse City, the daughter of the late Donald and Violet (Duffett) Best. In her youth, she enjoyed traveling with her parents and was a graduate of Cass City High School.

Gloria worked as a homecare aide and was able to help many people in their time of need. She remained steadfast in her faith through regular Bible study, and her nurturing spirit extended into every aspect of her life, including her care for animals. Gloria absolutely loved cats and took in many over the years, giving them all her love and care.

She enjoyed riding mopeds and bikes, once she even joined the neighbor boys in riding off their ramps, a memory she held dear to her heart. Gloria could often be found crocheting and mastering crosswords or out in her gardens, as she had an impeccable green thumb. She was a hard-working woman with a heart of gold. Gloria will be remembered for her ability to get things done and take care of others.

Left to cherish Gloria’s memory are her sisters, Valerie Wasserman of Cass City and Gaydon Edwards of Deford; nine nieces and nephews; and many great- and great-great nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Gloria was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Bucholz; brother, Donald Best; sister, Sandra Russell; nephew, Jack Edwards III; and brother-in-law, Matt Wasserman.

A funeral service for Gloria will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Ransford Funeral Home – Caro, 205 West Sherman Street, with Rev. Isaac Madanu officiating. Burial will follow the service at the Novesta Township Cemetery in Cass City. Visitation will take place at the funeral home on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Memorials may be made to American Diabetes Association or to American Cancer Society.