Sally Ann Marie Gleason, a beloved resident of Cortez, Colorado has left this world peacefully on March 1 2026 at the age of 70. Born on August 14 1955 she had built a life centered on family devotion community leadership and quiet acts of compassion that left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Sally was a devoted mother who raised her three children with grace strength and unwavering dedication creating a home filled with encouragement wisdom and unconditional love that served as the heart of her family for decades. She poured her energy into nurturing these close bonds ensuring her children grew up surrounded by stability and support that shaped them into resilient individuals ready to face the world.
As the first female Exalted Ruler of the Elks Lodge #1789 Sally broke barriers and led with passion and vision transforming the organization into a hub of positive activity during her tenure. She focused on expanding programs that strengthened local ties and created opportunities for members to engage meaningfully with one another and the broader Cortez area. Her leadership style emphasized inclusivity and forward thinking inspiring others to step up and contribute to the lodge’s mission of fellowship and service.
She demonstrated a lifelong commitment to helping others that went well beyond the boundaries of the Elks Lodge with her devotion to charitable activities and support for veterans. In order to directly assist military families and people in need around Montezuma County, Sally planned fundraisers, gathered contributions, and put in numerous hours of volunteer work. Her altruistic labor demonstrated her strong sense of duty and empathy, which made her a revered and admired person whose efforts made a significant yet subtle difference in the lives of many.
Sally maintained a lifestyle rooted in faith family and community involvement attending services at St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Catholic Church and participating actively in local gatherings that celebrated the unique spirit of Cortez. She found fulfillment in simple moments of connection whether sharing stories with loved ones or lending a helping hand to neighbors demonstrating a balanced approach that valued relationships and meaningful contributions above all else.
The legacy of Sally Ann Marie Gleason stands as a testament to a life well lived filled with profound family devotion trailblazing leadership and the compassionate service that continues to inspire the Cortez community and beyond. A funeral mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday March 11 2026 with rosary at 9:30 a.m. at St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Catholic Church offering loved ones a chance to gather reflect and honor her remarkable journey.
