Gail Frances Bolster Glatfelter,86, of Ephrata, died on January 31, 2026, at Landis Homes in Lititz. Born on November 23, 1939, in Lancaster, she was the daughter of the late W. Frank & Ethel (Lesher) Bolster, and the loving wife of Nelson Glatfelter. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother, who lived a life filled with purpose and compassion.

Gail was a proud 1957 graduate of Ephrata High School and continued to assist in planning every class reunion celebration. After high school, Gail attended Millersville University and received her bachelor’s degree in education in 1961. Gail dedicated a significant part of her life to education, teaching third grade at both Akron Elementary School and Highland Elementary School until her retirement in 1990. Her impact on her students and the community is fondly remembered, as she nurtured and inspired countless young minds throughout her career. Education was not just her profession but also a passion that she shared with her family and community. She was a lifelong Lutheran, actively participating as a member of Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ephrata. Her faith was a guiding force in her life, and she cherished the community and fellowship it provided. Gail’s love for family was abundantly evident in her deep affection for her grandchildren. She took great joy in attending their events, always supporting and celebrating their achievements. In her personal life, Gail had a spirit of adventure. She traveled extensively throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, and the Caribbean, cherishing every journey as a memorable experience. For two decades, she maintained a special vacation home in Wesley Chapel, Florida, which held a special place in her heart. An active member of the American VolksSport Association, she enjoyed hiking and swimming, embracing the beauty of nature and the joy of physical activity. Reflecting on her childhood, Gail fondly remembered the newsreels of battles during World War II that she would watch at the former Main Street theater in Ephrata, as well as the celebrations marking the end of the conflict in 1945. Gail leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication that will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know her.

Gail is survived by her husband, Nelson Glatfelter; her daughter, Beth Glatfelter Kimmel, wife of James D. Kimmel; and her beloved three grandchildren, Megan, Nathan, and Madison Kimmel.

Gail is preceded in death by her parents, W. Frank and Ethel (Lesher) Bolster.

A visitation in honor of Gail will be held on February 7, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Salem Lutheran Church, located at 1331 West Main Street, Ephrata, PA 17522, followed by a funeral service starting at 1:00 PM. Gail’s final resting place will be at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Ephrata.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Salem Lutheran Church; 1331 W. Main Street, Ephrata, PA 17522 or Tunnel to Tower Foundation; www.t2t.org.