Search by Name

Search by Name

Gloria DiLorenzo Obituary

DiLorenzo, Gloria Ann

Gloria Ann DiLorenzo, age 86, passed peacefully on January 10, 2022. She was born February 24, 1935, in Joliet, IL to Charles and Mary DiLorenzo. She attended Joliet Township High School and graduated in 1953. Gloria lived most of her adult life in her beloved Chicago. In the early 1970s, after receiving her Master's in Labor Relations from the University of Chicago, Gloria began work for the National Labor Relations Board in Chicago where she quickly rose in the ranks. Gloria had a fierce love for tennis and even traveled to Wimbledon several times. She studied Italian so she could learn the native language of her grandparents and spent many years visiting different regions of Italy with her sister Bernie. She enjoyed foreign films, plays, the Chicago skyline, and spending time at the Art Institute of Chicago. Gloria was thoughtful and private, always taking great care with decisions. She was reserved until you heard her laugh. Gloria's laugh was specific, vibrant, and unmistakable. She will be remembered for that great laugh, the way she embraced the arts and instilled that love in those around her, and her calm and kind nature. Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, a sister who died in childhood, Viola, and her older sister Bernadine. Glorida is survived by her niece, Carol Cryer; grandnieces Stephanie (Michael) Johnson and Sandra Austin; a great grandniece, Cecilia; her companion Robert Smith and Robert's daughter Robin (Symeon) Smith Davis; and many cousins. To honor Gloria, please consider supporting the Parkinson's Foundation or spending a quiet afternoon in an art museum.

Sign Guest Book at legacy.suntimes.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Jan. 13, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Gloria DiLorenzo

Sponsored by Chicago Sun-Times.

Not sure what to say?





Heidi Ellison Childress

January 30, 2022

Remembering Gloria´s beautiful smile above all memories. Condolences to all of her family, especially Bob.

Louella Krueger Ward

January 17, 2022

Our condolences to Bob, Robin and the extended family. Gloria was a dear woman and lover of the arts.

Dr. Alan J. and Louella Ward

Bob Sergent

January 15, 2022

I remember Gloria very well. She and my sister, Josephine were best friends. I remember her dog that would follow them wherever they went.

I also remember how we would cook potatoes in a fire we built behind grandma DiLorenzo's second story apartment in the courtyard.

These are just a few memories.

Gloria will be missed.

Barb K. Smith

January 15, 2022

With much love as a devoted friend. May you rest in peace. You were a true friend.

I wish your family peace and love.

Nicholle Bertino

January 14, 2022

My dear friend Robin held Gloria in the highest of regard and loved and cared for Gloria so very much.

She always shared how much she enjoyed her visits with Gloria and how she had warmed the hearts of her family.

What a touching and lovely memorial her obituary is and what a wonderful photo of her from her early days.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you mourn the passing of this beautiful lady.

All my love to you all.

Bill and Kael

January 14, 2022

We began playing games on Zoom with my Uncle Bobby and Gloria and my Cousin Robin and her husband, Symeon. Gloria´s eyes would light up and her entire face showed how much she enjoyed still playing. We are happy for the time we spent with her.
I saw a very tender side of my Uncle Bobby in their interactions. It was so sweet to see.

Robin Smith Davis

January 13, 2022

Gloria was one of the sweetest women I knew. She embodied kindness, loyalty and love. We will carry her loving spirit within us each and every day. She was my second Mother and I will cherish her always and forever...

Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results

Make a Donation
in Gloria DiLorenzo's name

Memorial Events
for Gloria DiLorenzo

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Gloria's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Gloria DiLorenzo's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more