Gloria June Salem

Gloria June Salem, born October 1, 1923, passed away peacefully at the Webb House Retirement Center in McMinnville, TN on August 18, 2023, following a brief illness.

Gloria June Salem was a dedicated mother, beloved aunt and cherished friend to all who knew her. Though she was approaching her 100th birthday celebration, Gloria will spend that sacred day in the arms of her Lord.

Born Gloria June Thompson in the quiet Upstate NY village of Broadalbin, on October 1, 1923, she met and married her soulmate, Michael Salem on August 2, 1947 and settled in Rochester, NY where she was a successful Executive Secretary for an international consulting firm, Kelly Reed. She retired in 1961 to raise her son (Scott Michael) and manage the household. Gloria enjoyed gardening, sing-alongs, entertaining friends, and the company of a good book. Friends share many stories of her dry wit and card shark skills that defined, in her own words, a “Vabulous” long life.

Gloria is survived by her son, Scott Michael Salem, and daughter in law, Bonnie Smart Salem. She is also survived by her beloved nieces and nephews, with whom she enjoyed frequent, lively phone conversations regarding favorite sports teams and family memories. Her five furry grandkids (Plum, Lula, Jessie, Bailey and Ace) will also miss her deeply.

Gloria is reunited with her husband, Michael Salem; parents, Charlotte and Frank Thompson; four brothers, Frances, Vernon, John and Robert and two sisters, Thelma and Genevieve who preceded her in death.

A memorial service and inurnment will be held at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA and will take place at a future to be determined date.

In lieu of flowers, a charitable donation to any organization that supports Veterans and their families (ie., Disabled American Veterans, Wounded Warriors, Fisher House), will be greatly appreciated.

Online condolences may be left at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home and High's Cremations, Inc. is in charge of arrangements.