Elder Mrs. Gladys Ijeagu Okali

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Gladys Ijeagu Okali, a remarkable woman whose grace, resilience, faith, and unwavering devotion to her family and community touched countless lives.

Born May 27, 1953, Gladys was the eldest of eight children from her mother and the only daughter among seven brothers. Her father had four wives and a total of 32 children, shaping her early years as both a protective sister and a natural leader. She completed her early education and high school at Enuda High School in Abiriba, Ohafia Local Government, Abia State, Nigeria.

After high school, Gladys married Elder Chief Okali Ukiwe Okali and began her family life in then Enugu, Anambra State, where she welcomed her first two sons. The family later moved to Lagos State, where she worked as a clerk in a government ministry. Her determination to grow and learn never wavered. She earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Lagos while working full-time, raising four children, and fulfilling her duties as a wife.

Her professional path flourished in education. She taught English at Air Force Secondary School, Ikeja, Lagos, eventually becoming Head of the Languages Department, where her leadership and dedication inspired both students and colleagues.

Alongside her career, Gladys was deeply devoted to her faith. She was an active member of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Festac Town Parish, where she served faithfully as an ordained Elder, led the Women’s Guild, and counseled many as a trusted spiritual guide. Her life reflected her deep commitment to Christ and her desire to uplift others through service and prayer.

In 1997, Gladys relocated to Minnesota, USA. While she initially explored a career in healthcare, her passion for teaching drew her back to the classroom as a substitute teacher. In 2017, she authored and published a children’s book, The Making of the King of Birds, a proud expression of her creativity and love for learning. She continued teaching until her retirement in 2020.

She was also very involved in the Abiriba Communal Improvement Union (ACIU) Association in the United States, where she actively contributed her talents. Notably, she helped design the brochure for one of the annual conventions, leaving a creative mark that is still remembered today.

In her later years, Gladys fully embraced her role as matriarch traveling to visit her eleven grandchildren across the United States and pouring love, guidance, and wisdom into her family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Elder Chief Okali Ukiwe Okali (2008), and her eldest son, Peter Ukiwe Okali (2013). She is lovingly survived by her three children, three daughters-in-law, eleven grandchildren, six brothers, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of relatives, church members, and friends who will forever treasure her memory.

Gladys’s life was a testament to faith, perseverance, lifelong learning, and unconditional love. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Rest in Peace, Mommy. Until we meet again.

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Celebration of Life & Final Farewell for Gladys Ijeagu Okali

(Friday, November 14th – Sunday, November 16th, 2025)

Friday, November 14th

• Wake Keeping

⏰ 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

📍 Redeemed Christian Church of God – Fountain of Fulfillment

4430 Foard St, Fort Worth, TX 76119

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Saturday, November 15th

• Viewing / Visitation

⏰ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

📍 Moore Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens

1219 N. Davis Dr., Arlington, TX 76012

• Funeral Service

⏰ 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM

📍 Moore Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens

1219 N. Davis Dr., Arlington, TX 76012

• Interment (Lying to Rest)

⏰ 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

📍 Moore Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens

1219 N. Davis Dr., Arlington, TX 76012

• Reception / Refreshments

⏰ 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM

📍 Moore Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens

1219 N. Davis Dr., Arlington, TX 76012

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Sunday, November 16th

• Thanksgiving Service

⏰ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

📍 Redeemed Christian Church of God – Fountain of Fulfillment

4430 Foard St, Fort Worth, TX 76119