My name is Candice Anderson, I’m the secretary/office manager here at Christ United Methodist
Church.
I had the absolute privilege of meeting Mrs. Gloria when I came to Christ UMC in 2014. She was kind, sharp, witty and a total pleasure to be around. She regaled us (the church and my family) with tales of her children, grandchildren, former students, and her life in general. As she was an only child, I can vividly recall her referring to her five children as her greatest blessings, and at that time, me being a mother of one, it stuck with me... and she's definitely one of the persons I thank for convincing me to have another child.
When she moved to California, we kept in touch, mostly via Facebook but with the occasional phone call. When Dashia would visit (and eventually moved there), we upgraded to the rare video chat which meant I could see her (!) and she got to see my little ones as they continued to grow.
She was always encouraging. I remember calls and messages she sent to me when my mother passed away in 2019, and a surprise picture of my mom she posted on Facebook that made me cry tears of joy (because I hadn't seen my mom in what felt like forever and it was like a breath of fresh air to see her in a picture, smiling and happy and well)
I will forever cherish her comments and quips about my boys and their antics, her expressions of love to me and my family, and the way she could brighten up my day from two thousand miles away. I will remember her voice, and the way she spoke/wrote so highly of you all -her family- her love for you was evident in every post, and every picture, and in every conversation.
I will always remember her faith, it never wavered. From the toughest of times, to the best of times, she always outwardly praised God through the trials for His gifts and blessings. Her resilience, patience, and practice of gratitude were profound examples to me and for me as I continue in my faith journey. I can only hope to be like her, and perhaps be a mentor and role model to someone like she was to me.
I hope this letter brings you some comfort and know that you all are in my prayers. May God surround you with His peace, and may you be blessed with His strength. Thank you for sharing Mrs. Gloria with us.
She will be forever loved and forever missed.