Gloria Mae (Carmichael) Kierstead
KIERSTEAD, Gloria Mae (Carmichael), 79, PRESQUE ISLE, December 19, 2010. Arrangements are in the care of Duncan-Graves Funeral Home, Presque Isle.
PRESQUE ISLE – Gloria Mae Carmichael Kierstead, 79, of Presque Isle, Maine, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, December 19, 2010, while recovering from hip surgery at home. Gloria was born August 5, 193, to Arthur and Velma (Moran) Carmichael of Presque Isle. To Gloria, family was of prime importance.
She is survived by her daughter and husband, Rev. Gayla and Rev. Donald Maguire of Bowdoin, ME; three sons, Rev. Kevin Kierstead, and wife, Malinda, and Clare Kierstead, all of Presque Isle, and Robert Kierstead and wife, Corrie of Ft. Fairfield; one sister, Joyce Thomas and her husband, Harry Thomas of Presque Isle; as well as some special in-laws, Richard Ireland, Pearl Carmichael and Priscilla Carmichael Clark. Her grandchildren include, Callie Mae Maguire, Aaron Kierstead and wife, Heather, Alicia Kierstead, Russell Hastings, and Chantel Limogues; along with one great-grandson, Josiah Kierstead and another on the way.
She is predeceased by her husband of 54 years, Wilmot D. Kierstead; a son, David Kierstead; a daughter-in-law, Debbie Kierstead; four brothers, Marvin Carmichael, Burrell Carmichael, Oral Carmichael, and Carroll Carmichael; and two sisters, Ardis Bull and Georgina Ireland.
Gloria was wed to her beloved husband, Rev. Wilmot Kierstead, on September 6, 1950. She was a faithful, Godly wife, believing God desired her by her husband’s side at all times. The two worked tirelessly in ministry as they pastured Monticello Pentecostal Church for 12 years, with many lasting friendships formed during that time. Joy Fellowship, a women’s ministry that continues to this day, was started under her leadership together with a loving friend, Joyce Stillman. She was a member of Presque Isle Full Gospel Assembly for over 60 years, serving in Children’s and Visitation Ministries. She assisted with the annual Women’s Retreat Ministry, and coordinator of food for many events through the years. Wherever food was needed, Gloria was the first to volunteer. When asked to sing, two of her favorites were “I Have a Source” and “A God that Cannot Fail”, the words meant more to her than the melody. She exemplified God in every fiber of her being and left a wonderful example for all to follow.
The Kierstead household always held an open invitation especially young people, particularly on Sunday afternoon. There was an SOS policy at the dinner table which meant “Stretch or Starve.” Mom’s greatest joy was to serve lovingly with her hands making all kinds of goodies while music, laughter and tons of fun rang through the air. Young people were brought in under their roof and loved as if they were their own children. Mom, you will be missed greatly by all!
Gloria worked at the Presque Isle Nursing Home for over 33 years, retiring at age 78. She loved her work and the people, staff and residents alike. Our thanks go to those at TAMC, the TAMC Rehab Unit and Presque Isle Nursing and Rehabilitation Center who gave our Mom such loving care.
Family and friends called from 6-8 p.m., at the Presque Isle Full Gospel Assembly, 7 Dudley St., Wednesday, December 22. The funeral service was held Thursday, December 23, at 11 a.m. with calling hours an hour before. Rev. Kevin Kierstead and Rev. Bruce Blakney officiated. Donations in Gloria’s memory may be made to the Presque Isle Full Gospel Assembly. Arrangements are in the care of Duncan-Graves Funeral Home, Presque Isle. Online condolences may be made at www.duncan-graves.com.
