Gladys Lucille Gary, born on July 13, 1945, in Philadelphia, PA, departed this life on August 17, 2024, at the age of 79. God in his infinite wisdom called her home to rest. Gladys was one of nine children born to the late John Gary Sr. and Josephine Gary.

Gladys, affectionately called "Aunty Mom" and "Mom Gladys" by family and friends, was educated in the School District of Philadelphia. She went on to lead a life filled with love, kindness, and joy.

Gladys was a devoted mother to her only daughter, Wanda Gary, whom she adored. Gladys and Wanda shared a close bond and spent much of their time together. Gladys was welled cared for by her daughter who graciously devoted her time to cherishing her and making sure her needs was met.

At an early age, Gladys was baptized and accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as her Savior. She visited Compassion Chapel Ministry, where she attended services with her daughter under the leadership of Pastor Joann Walker.

Gladys often visited her favorite place, Atlantic City, NJ, where she enjoyed going to the Hard Rock Casino.  She had a knack for winning at the casino, a pastime she enjoyed alongside her Daughter and sister Connie, who was not only her sibling but also her best friend. Wanda’s friends Tanya, Sharon, Carmen, Sherryl, and niece Rochelle would occasionally join Gladys, Wanda, and Connie on their trips to Atlantic City, either traveling together or meeting there.

Gladys found joy in her daily walks with her sister Connie, and she also loved caring for Wanda's pets, Boo Boo Kitty and Belle. Gladys had a deep appreciation for R&B music from the '60s and '70s, and she even sang background for iconic artists such as James Brown and Solomon Burke. Smokey Robinson was one of her favorite artists.

Gladys was a diehard Dallas fan and enjoyed watching other teams as well, especially the rival against the Philadelphia Eagles. She would be well prepared dressed with her Dallas shirt on watching the game.

Gladys was also a strong supporter of the non-profit organization, Link in the Chain Community Outreach. She generously bought toys and school supplies for this ministry and regularly attended their events.

Gladys and her sister Connie had a strong bond; they were truly inseparable. They did everything together, from taking daily walks to watching their favorite TV shows. Whether they were dressing alike, styling their hair in rollers and scarves, or simply spending time together, if you saw one, you saw the other.

Gladys will be greatly missed, by her family and friends.

Gladys was preceded in death by her parents, John Gary Sr. and Josephine Gary; her four brothers, John, Clarence, Norman, and Leonard; her three sisters, Estelle and Vertell, and Evelyn and her granddaughter, Kimberly.

She leaves to cherish her memories her daughter, Wanda Gary (Karl); her sister, Constance Gary; her granddaughter, Zakia Gary (Tawanda); two great-grandsons, Marquis Willis and Angel Jones; and a host of nieces and nephews, including a special nephew, Kendall, and a special niece, Pastor Rochelle.