Gloria E. Baker

Baker ~ Gloria Elouise Glenn (née Pierce) passed away peacefully July 12, 2023.  She was born January 12, 1933, in Jacksonville, Florida to the late Albert and Elizabeth (Douglas) Pierce, Sr. 

As a young girl, she was baptized at Saint Stephen African Methodist Episcopal Church, where she later became a member under Reverend J. A. Johnson.  A talented student, Gloria graduated from Stanton High School in 1950, Edward Waters University in 1966, and pursued graduate studies in elementary education at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.  Her life was filled with faith, laughter, and love.

As an educator, Gloria touched countless lives.  She had a special place in her heart for every student and left an indelible mark on all those she influenced throughout her long career.  With a kind heart and unwavering commitment, she not only educated her students but also provided them with the support, guidance, and care they needed to excel.

Outside the classroom, Gloria had a vibrant, outgoing personality and embraced life’s simple pleasures.  She found great joy in dancing, getting lost in a good mystery or romance novel, relaxing on the beach, laughing with friends, or lighting up a room with her clever wit and contagious humor.  Every room she entered was made brighter by her presence. 

Above all, Gloria cherished her family.  While at Stanton High School, she met the late Otis Glenn, Sr.  To their union, they welcomed four children, Otis Glenn, Jr., Elizabeth Winestock (Jim), Keith Glenn (Tammy), and Warren Glenn. She was an adoring mother, and her love knew no bounds.  She supported, nurtured, and celebrated her children throughout her entire life. Gloria took great pride in their joy and accomplishments and considered them her greatest legacy.

Gloria’s pride and joy also extended beyond her immediate family.  She was a dedicated grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and great-aunt and cherished each moment spent with her loving family.  Whether it was welcoming family to her house during summer vacations and holidays, spending evenings watching movies with them, rocking with them on her porch swing, leading them on expeditions to Florida Caverns State Park, or sharing milk-filled coffee and overflowing bowls of ice cream with them, she delighted in spending time with her whole family.  She created lasting memories that her loved ones will always cherish.

Gloria’s passing leaves a void in the lives of all who loved her, but her legacy of love, generosity, and joy will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate to know her. She will be remembered for her ability to make every day special, and, as we say our final goodbyes, let us rejoice because we had the opportunity to know and love her.

Rest in heaven, dear Gloria Elouise Glenn. You were and will always be a blessing to us all.  Your life was a triumph, and you accomplished your goal. You caught a bloom and snatched a star from deep dominions where they are. We love you, always and forever.

Gloria was preceded in death by her beloved brothers, Albert and Warren Pierce.  She leaves to cherish her memory, her sister, Betty Lasseter; children, Otis Glenn, Elizabeth Winestock, Keith Glenn, and Warren Glenn; and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Celebration of Life service for Gloria Elouise Baker will be 12:00PM Thursday, July 20, 2023 at The Soutel Chapel.  Visitation Wednesday from 5 – 7:00 PM at The Soutel Chapel.  Interment in Edgewood Cemetery.  Because of the love of her family, arrangements entrusted to J. E. Fralin & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services, 5065 Soutel Drive, 904-924-9400

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