Obituary of Violet W. Gosline

Violet Whaley (Whitford) Gosline, 89, of Clinton, died peacefully on Saturday, May 31, 2014 with her loving family at her side. Born in Kenyon, Rhode Island on January 22, 1925, Violet was the third daughter (Natalie, Ruth, Violet) of the late Nathaniel and Mabel (Browning) Whitford. Her parents named her Violet after the Rhode Island state flower, but most of her friends and family affectionately called her "Whit." Whit graduated from Westerly High School, in Westerly, RI, and received her nursing training and RN from Methodist Episcopal Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. While at Methodist Hospital, she became president of student council and graduated second in her class, eventually becoming night supervisor. Whit was predeceased by her husband, Dr. Ernest Gosline. They were married on January 11, 1948, in Brooklyn, NY. She is survived by her 3 children, Scott (and Susan), of Leesburg, Virginia, Peter (and Connie), of Peterborough, New Hampshire, and Susan (and John) Sector, of Sand Lake, NY; 9 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. Whit adored her husband Ernie, whom she met as an Intern when they were both at Methodist Hospital. They spent 65 glorious years at each other's side. During this time, they traveled extensively, to many parts of the world. Their favorite destination was Hawaii, and they returned with many memories created there. Whit had a special talent of bringing out the best in people, encouraging them to realize their full potential. She was very comfortable around others, and had a special knack for story telling. She surrounded herself with family, friends, and acquaintances, who loved her dearly. She was devoted to her family, and for many years she wrote weekly letters to each of her grown children. Whit was very active in the community, and over the years, volunteered on a number of Boards and community organizations. She skied, played tennis and at one point she organized a dancercise class for young mothers at Kirkland Art Center. She was active in both bridge and whist clubs locally, and subsequently developed a special circle of friends who still enjoy being with each other today. Whit had an active spiritual life, and was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, Utica for many years. It is the wish of the family that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made in memory of Whit Gosline, to Westminster Presbyterian Church, 714 Washington Street, Utica, NY 13502, to the Siegenthaler Center for Hospice and Palliative Care, 4277 Middle Settlement Rd. New Harford, NY 13413, or alternatively, to the charity of their choice. Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects at Owens-Pavlot and Rogers Funeral Service, Inc., 35 College Street, Clinton, NY. Calling hours are Friday evening, June 6, from 4-6pm, and funeral services will immediately follow at 6pm.