Gloria Dean Williams

Gloria Dean Williams, lovingly known to all as Gloria, passed away peacefully on the 12th of March, 2025, at the age of 67, in Abbeville, Alabama, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on May 9, 1957, in Clayton, Alabama, Gloria was a beacon of kindness and friendliness, touching the lives of all she encountered with her warm spirit and generous heart.

Gloria was the cherished daughter of the late Eddie Lee Williams and Mary Lee Young Williams. She was a beloved sister and is survived by her adoring sisters, Mary Ruth Lawrence, Mary Ann Murray, Lois Lindsay (Sonny), Louise Mason (Leroy), Cherry Jones (Raymond), and Mary Alice May (James). Gloria was preceded in passing by her siblings, Eddie Dean Williams, Mary Lilly Williams, and Betty Ann Williams, yet her legacy continues to thrive through her loving family.

As a devoted mother, Gloria's pride and joy were her daughter, Amanda Blackmon, who is married to Ricky Nelson. She reveled in the accomplishments and milestones of her grandchildren, Carriss Dozier (Deion), Breanna Glover, and Tyris Blackmon. Her great-grandchildren, Noah Dozier, Kyla Dozier, and Hope Dozier, were a constant source of delight and happiness in her life.

Gloria's presence was a gift to her many nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family members, who all benefited from her eternal optimism and enduring support. Her love for her family was matched only by her passion for life's simple pleasures. An avid player of bingo and an enthusiast of crossword puzzles, Gloria found joy and contentment in these activities that kept her mind sharp and her spirit engaged.

Gospel music filled Gloria's home and heart, often serving as the soundtrack to family gatherings and quiet moments alike. Her love for the soul-stirring melodies was infectious, and she was known to hum along to her favorite tunes while going about her day.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Gloria will remember her as the embodiment of kindness. Her friendly demeanor was a constant, and her ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued will not be forgotten. Gloria's compassion extended beyond her family, touching the lives of everyone she met.

Gloria's life was a journey of joy, resilience, and unwavering faith. She faced life's challenges with grace and emerged with a smile that could brighten the darkest of days. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the countless ways she enriched our lives.

Gloria Dean Williams will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her story is one of a life well-lived and a heart given freely to all. She leaves behind a tapestry of love and cherished moments that will continue to inspire and comfort her family and friends for generations to come.

A celebration of Gloria’s life will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025, at 11am in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel. The family will be receiving friends on Thursday, March 21, 2025, from 4-6pm in the Sunset Parlor. Gloria will be laid to rest in the Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery.