Dr. Rev. Gloria L.H. Stephens

It is with profound sadness and cherished memories that we announce the peaceful passing of Dr. Reverend Gloria L.H. Stephens, who departed this world on April 8, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on September 3, 1942, in Apopka, Florida, Gloria's life was a testament to her unwavering commitment to faith, education, and community service. Preceded in death by her beloved parents, Mr. Charlie Willie and Mrs. Farices Truth Holmes, and her siblings Willie Mae Holmes, Luther Earl Holmes, Jimmy Holmes Sr., and Kerry Donovan Holmes, Gloria was a beacon of light and hope to those who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by her cherished daughter, Joy Stribling and her husband Peter; her treasured grandsons, Christopher Diego, and his wife Kimberly, and Tyler Matthew, and his wife Meagan; and her adored granddaughter, Zoe Henry. Gloria's memory will also live on in the hearts of her siblings, Charlie Mae Warren, Eddie Carl Holmes Sr., Rosemary Simmons and her husband Robert, and Brenda Holmes, along with a host of friends who will forever love and remember her. Gloria's professional journey was marked by her dedication to nurturing and empowering others. Her career began at Martin Marietta in Orlando, Florida, where she exemplified excellence as a Registered Head Nurse and Director of Education, focusing on diabetes education. Her passion for teaching extended to her role as a Nursing Adjunct Professor, and she later served as a retired administrator with Orange County Public Schools, touching countless lives with her wisdom and compassion. A woman of deep faith and community spirit, Gloria was an esteemed member of Nu Iota Omega, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated in Maitland, Florida. She played a pivotal role in the South Apopka Ministerial Alliance and served as a chaplain for both the Ocoee Police Department and the National Baptist USA. Gloria's commitment to service was further reflected in her roles as the Secretary for the Progressive Senior Citizen Club and as a Board Member for Charter High Schools in Apopka, Aloma, and Chancery. Dr. Reverend Gloria L.H. Stephens was a woman of many talents, whose interests enriched her life and those around her. She traveled extensively, exploring the beauty of Africa and Canada and attending numerous conferences, church, and sorority events within the United States and abroad. Gloria found joy in reading, listening to music, playing golf with her grandson, and attending art and music festivals. Above all, she cherished spending quality time with her family and friends, creating memories that will be treasured forever. A service celebrating Gloria's life will be held at 11:22, where family and friends will gather to honor a remarkable woman whose life was a blessing to all who knew her. Her spirit, kindness, and dedication to making the world a better place will continue to inspire us all. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Gloria's memory to organizations that support education and community service, causes close to her heart. As we say goodbye to a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, we hold her legacy close, knowing that she is now at peace, embraced by the love she shared so freely.