It is with great sadness that we announce that Loretta J. Gula of Richmond, IN passed away on Sunday, January 1, 2023, at her home. The daughter of the late Mary Gula Pietrzak and the late Walter Gula, she was born May 15, 1946, in Bronx, New York.

After receiving her bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University in Queens, New York, she worked as a teacher in New York City and as a college administrator in Maryland. Loretta moved to Richmond in 1977 where she earned a Master of Divinity degree in pastoral counseling from Earlham School of Religion in 1982. Using her skills in grief counseling, psychotherapy, mental health counseling, and family therapy, she led a life of compassionate service to others and was highly regarded by her many clients.  In addition to her private practice, Loretta had been a chaplain at Reid Hospital, had worked at Indiana University East in the office of Continuing Studies and later as a behavioral health counselor. She was the founder of A Creating Center where she viewed herself as a growth facilitator, helping to empower others to live their best lives.  Loretta will be very much missed by all those who enjoyed her friendship, her love of fun, her stories of her beloved cats and the positive words of encouragement she loved to share.  Her last post on Facebook ends with: “Be a light for those who live in darkness.” Loretta was indeed a bright light in many lives.

She was preceded in death by her step-father, Roman Pietrzak.

She is survived by her step-brothers, Ted Pietrzak of Syracuse, NY, and Kenneth Pietrzak of Bath, PA, and several step-nieces and step-nephews. Her family will remember her as a very caring and compassionate person.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. Donations in Loretta’s memory can be made to Earlham School of Religion. 228 College Avenue, Richmond, IN 47374, directed to the Cooper Scholarship Fund. Or memorials may be made online at esr.earlham.edu.

Arrangements entrusted to Community Family Funeral Home.  Send online condolences via the website at www.communityfamilyfh.com.