Gloria Speaks Hay

Gloria Speaks Hay, born in Athens, AL on November 6, 1934, passed away on December 12, 2020. She was 86. Gloria was preceded in death by her mother, Eva Lamon Speaks, her father, Robert Louis Speaks, and by her husband, Pete Hay. She leaves behind daughters Leslie Hay and Cindy Hemby (Ron), granddaughter Amelia Hemby, sister, Janis Bitting, and nieces and nephews.

Gloria graduated from Athens High School, attended Florence State and graduated from the University of Alabama. She spent her early career as an elementary school teacher and then later had a fulfilling career of over 20 years with Lifeway.

Gloria loved to laugh, joke and be silly with family, friends and even strangers. Even in the end, she appreciated a sense of humor. She loved to shop. And she loved to talk on the phone. She was such a generous and giving person, loving nothing better than to spoil her daughters and granddaughter with gifts, love, conversations and attention.

We will cherish our memories of Gloria’s enthusiasm for the Tennessee Titans. A bigger fan there has never been. And we will forever admire and be inspired by her loving, caring spirit and the strength that she showed throughout her life.

Due to COVID-19, a public service will not be held. The family will hold a private Celebration of Life.