Gloria F. Brown was born March 18, 1946, in Wilson, N.C., the third of Jesse and Helen Fulghum’s four children – the “funniest” in her family, as she liked to remind everyone, and no one ever argued. She passed away peacefully at the age of 79 on September 25 at her home in Yorktown, Va., surrounded by her family. True to form, she kept her loved ones laughing and on their toes right to the end.
Gloria grew up in Hampton Roads after her family relocated there, and for the last 40 years made her home in Yorktown. She married the love of her life, Wayne Brown, on December 5, 1964. Their marriage of 56 years was one of deep devotion, easy laughter, and steadfast companionship. When Wayne passed in 2020, Gloria carried on with the same grit and humor that had always defined her, honoring his memory while continuing to be the anchor of her family.
For 35 years, Gloria served proudly as a civil servant at Langley Air Force Base, where her work ethic and commitment left a lasting mark. But her proudest role was at home—being “Mom,” “Grandma,” and eventually “Nana.” She raised two daughters, Teresa (Tommy) Shively and Jami (Scott) Batten, with tough love, honest advice, and unwavering affection. As her family grew, so did her joy: grandchildren Cory (Kayla) Shively, Justin (Caitlin) Shively, Jessica (Evan) Leugers, and Jack Dyess; great-grands Adonis, Cameron, Kaiden, Abigail, Ava, Jameson, and Emerson Shively, and Lily Leugers.
Gloria had a gift for friendship, with circles of friends that stretched across decades—some 40 and 50 years strong. She was a member of Crooks Memorial Methodist Church, found joy in her local home decorating club, and leaned on the companionship of her widows’ group, who shared life’s ups and downs with humor and grace.
She is survived by her siblings, Bobby (Jean) Fulghum, Libby (Ted) Crossland, Nancy Fulghum, and Thomas (Betty) Joy, along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family who adored her. She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Wayne.
Those who knew Gloria will remember her contradictions fondly: tough and soft, sharp-tongued and rip-roaringly funny, yet always genuine and kind. She loved her family beyond measure, set an example of resilience and loyalty, and leaves a legacy of laughter, strength, and love.
A memorial service will be held at Crooks Memorial Methodist Church on Saturday, October 11, at 11:00 a.m. The family invites all who knew and loved Gloria to gather, share stories, and celebrate a life well lived.
Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.
5 Comments
I had only met Gloria once but felt I had known her for years. We became facebook friends .She loved her family and will be missed by all
To Jami and family I am so sorry for your loss. May her memories bring you comfort and give you peace in your time of healing. Love 💕 and prayers 🙏 to everyone!
Dear friend you will be sorely missed. To her family my heartfelt prayers go out to you
Dear friend you will be sorely missed. To her family my heartfelt prayers go out to you
Gloria’s inner light and goodness were unmistakeable. She was my dear friend and neighbor since 1987 and a charter member of our Bunco Sisterhood!
The kindest, most caring person ever. She could make me and everyone who knew her laugh out loud. She was uproariously funny, with a sharp mind and a tender caring heart. Her family was the core of her life and her honesty and integrity were the core of her character. Sincere condolences to Theresa and Jami and all of Gloria’s beloved family. Rest in peace dear friend. I know you were welcomed by your Savior.