Gloria Faye Grant

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved wife and mother, Gloria Faye Grant (80 years) who left this world on February 4th, 2023, lovingly surrounded by her family while bravely battling Pancreatic Cancer. Gloria was born on March 29, 1942, to her parents, Norman and Lillian Bandy of Hurley, VA. She grew up as a coal miner’s daughter and came from a large family of 13 children. While her childhood was difficult, she found solace and joy in exploring the beautiful landscape of the Appalachian Mountains. Throughout her life, she would often say that she always felt at peace being in nature and enjoying God’s handywork. In 1960, Gloria met Berry Melvin Grant while visiting Baltimore, MD. Berry would say it was love at first sight. She was a devoted wife to Berry supporting him throughout his career and beyond. They enjoyed a life full of adventure, love and success and were married for 62 wonderful years. Being a mother was one of the most important parts of Gloria’s life, a role that gave her much pride and joy. Family came first and was a value she instilled in all those around her. Douglas Arnold Grant arrived first followed by Warren Fitzgerald Grant and finally, Martha Marie Grant. She had the privilege of being Berry Lewis Grant’s Stepmother; always feeling that he was her own son. Berry and Gloria accepted David Israel into their home and raised him as their own, loving him as if he was always a member of our family. Growing up, Mom was always there for us, whether we needed help with our homework or just a shoulder to cry on. She dedicated her life to being a loving and supportive mother not only to those she raised but to other various students who would live with my parents while attending Indiana University. Gloria had limited opportunity to attend school when she was young and only completed schooling up to the 3rd grade. She valued education and fought hard to complete her GED when she was 64 years young. This was an enormous task for mother since she suffered from dyslexia all her life. She often considered completing her GED as an enormous accomplishment in her life. Gloria was passionate about her faith and an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. You would often find mom helping plan events, visiting members and teaching lessons in church. She was a woman of strong faith, and she instilled in us the importance of family, hard work and doing what is right. Our mother was a true role model who we will always look up to. Her love of the Savior guided all aspects of her life. Gloria was an accomplished and passionate seamstress. When she wasn’t filling her home with warmth and kindness, you could find her in her craft room working on a quilt or making sewing repairs, which was her happy place. She met weekly with her quilting group to create beautiful pieces of art for her friends, family and those in the community. Her unique talents will be remembered always. Mom also dedicated her time to giving back to those in need. She was a long-time volunteer at Opportunity House in Bloomington, IN, which is a resale shop where proceeds provide childcare to low-income families; something mom held dear to her heart being raised poor in the Appalachian Mountains. Gloria touched the lives of all those she met with her kind and gentle spirit. She had a passion for life and love for her family that was unmatched. Her unwavering commitment to her family, her faith and her community was a testament to her selflessness and strength. Gloria will be deeply missed by her family and friends, but her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Mom loved being around family every moment as demonstrated by her unwavering love that she showed to us all. To honor her memory and give thanks for the joy she brought into the lives of so many, a Memorial Service & Luncheon will be held on Saturday, February 25th at 11 am located at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 2411 E. 2nd Street, Bloomington, IN. Although we’re all grieving, let’s take some time to be grateful for the years we had together. Please come prepared to share your favorite memories and celebrate a very special life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Opportunity House at 907 W. 11th Street, Bloomington, IN 47404. Please note that your donation is in remembrance of Gloria Grant. For out-of-town guests, a discounted hotel rate of $259 per night has been secured. Follow the link below to confirm your room(s) at the Hilton Garden Inn located at 245 N. College Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47404. The cut-off date is Saturday, February 18, 2023. Available Rooms - Hilton Garden Inn Bloomington To share memories and photos of Gloria Grant, please visit https://everloved.com/life-of/gloria-grant/. Rest in peace, our dear Gloria. You will always be loved and remembered.

Tributes

Gloria Faye Grant

March 29, 1942 - February 4, 2023