1950 - 2026
Born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and raised in Brighton, Gloria graduated from Brighton High School and continued her education at Boston State College, now the University of Massachusetts Boston. She began her professional career as a line operator for Massachusetts Bell before later finding success in real estate.
Gloria raised her family in Holliston, where she was a devoted mother and actively involved in her children’s sports and activities. For the past 20 years, she embraced retirement on Cape Cod in Sandwich, enjoying time with family and friends and the coastal lifestyle she loved.
She was known for her strong will, determination, and deep kindness. Gloria loved cooking for family and friends, playing tennis, traveling, and cheering on her favorite Boston sports teams, especially the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots. She also cherished time spent at the family’s summer home at Dexter Beach in Marion, where many lasting memories were made. Above all, she treasured time with her grandchildren.
Gloria is survived by her son, Kurt Sjostedt and his wife Meghan of Marlborough, and her daughter, Kerry Zavaglia and her husband John of Issaquah, Washington. She was a proud grandmother to Jillian and Emma Sjostedt, and Lucy, Matthew, and Ryan Zavaglia.
She also leaves behind her best friend and partner, Bee Simmons; her brother, Jerome Guthro Jr. and his wife Ann; her sister-in-law Wendy Guthro; her godson Eric Lombardo; her goddaughters Karen Mosmon (Guthro) and Nancy Titcomb (Guthro); and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Jerome and Doris Guthro, and her brother, John “Jack” Guthro.
Gloria will be remembered for her strength, warmth, and unwavering love for her family.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 19th, from 6:00–8:00 PM at Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston.
A funeral service will take place on Friday, March 20th, at 11:00 AM in the funeral home. Interment will be held privately at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gloria’s memory to Boston Children’s Hospital or to a charity of one’s choice.
