Celeste Janelle Gamrod

Celeste Janelle Gamrod, 49, a cherished woman known for her unwavering kindness and gentle spirit, left this world on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at a local hospice house in Temple. Her departure was a result of a brave battle against stage four colon cancer, a fight she valiantly faced since the fall of 2021.

Celeste was a lifelong Lutheran and currently a member of Star John Lutheran Church in Bartlett.

She was born on Aug. 6, 1974, in Temple to Stanley Joe and LaVelle (Fischer) Glaser.

Celeste’s life journey was filled with remarkable chapters that touched the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her.

She was a devoted wife to Matthew Gamrod for 24 years and a proud mother to their beloved son, Stephen.

In addition to her immediate family, she is survived by her parents, Stanley and LaVelle Louise (Fischer) Glaser; her sister, Jocelyn (Ricky) Ramthun; nieces Natasha Ramthan and Hannah Garza; and nephew Gabriel Ramthun.

Celeste’s professional path was marked by dedication and compassion. Over the course of her career, she spent 19 years at Scott & White Health Plans, followed by eight years at Tri West Healthcare as an appointment clerk. Her commitment to helping others extended beyond her work sphere into various aspects of her life.

Education played a significant role in Celeste’s journey. She was a Badger at Buckholts High School, where she immersed herself in acting in their one-act plays before pursuing higher education. Her quest for knowledge led her to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in English and biology from the University of Mary Hardin- Baylor. Celeste presented her prize-winning sonnet at the International Society of Poets.

Galveston was her favorite vacation spot.

In reminiscence of joyous moments, memories of family trips to Colorado to revel in the beauty of the mountains hold a special place.

Being part of the Houston Area G Gaugers community brought her immense joy as she actively participated in local fundraisers alongside indulging in her passion for model trains.

Despite facing health challenges later in life, Celeste remained an epitome of grace and resilience. Her warm personality endeared her to all who crossed her path. She had an innate ability to connect with everyone she met, leaving behind no enemies with her affable nature and genuine conversations.

Beyond her professional accomplishments and academic pursuits lay Celeste’s heart for nurturing relationships. Meeting Matthew at Blackland Implement Store while running errands for her family’s farm, marking the beginning of a beautiful love story that culminated in their union on Nov. 20, 1999.

As a devoted band mom, she wholeheartedly supported Stephen’s musical endeavors and embraced the role of chaperoning Lake Belton High School’s away games with love and dedication.

In quieter moments, Celeste found solace in reading, particularly delving into Civil War novels that captivated her imagination.

Her proudest accomplishments revolved around being a loving wife to Matt and loving mother to Stephen as well as showering affection on their cats.

As we bid farewell to Celeste Janelle Gamrod, let us carry forward the warmth she shared with us all. May her memory be eternally cherished as a beacon of light guiding us through dark times.

Services honoring Celeste’s life will be held at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center in Temple for visitation on May 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. The funeral service will take place at St John Lutheran Church in Bartlett on Saturday, May 11, starting at 11 a.m., followed by reception there until 1:30 p.m., before proceeding to Hope Lutheran Memorial Park Cemetery in Buckholts for burial commencing at 2:30 p.m.

In honor of Celeste’s eloquent presence among us, let us celebrate a life well-lived and embrace the memories that will forever hold dear within our hearts.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a memorial donation to the American Cancer Society or please send flowers to the funeral home.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sabrina Young at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center.