Gloria Ann McClurkin Williams

Gloria accepted Christ early in life and was baptized during her membership at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church. She was a 1973 graduate of Garfield High School in the Akron Public School district. She continued her education at The Ohio State University where she received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees. Gloria was a dedicated educator and administrator within the Columbus school system. Her classrooms were known to have the fragrant aroma of the candles she burned on her desk where students felt welcomed. She was often mistaken as a student during the time when she was actually the principal. Gloria retired in 2006 after twenty-six years with the school district.

Gloria asked for and received her first Singer sewing machine while in high school. She became a skilled seamstress and sewed many of her clothes during her early years as well as drapery and other items for her home. She possessed a vision for her future and pursued it. Gloria navigated the complexities of home building before the age of twenty-five which speaks to her focus and ambition. She spent many summers tutoring students while serving as a volunteer with organizations that supported and empowered young girls.

Gloria found joy in the beauty of her home where she maintained a variety of flowers and plants. Like her Mom, she found peace in the serenity of the water in her pond and beauty of her colorful koi fish.

Gloria married the late Vaughn McClurkin and from this union welcomed Vaughn Alan and Corey Alex. Gloria shared later years in life with Ronald Williams who lovingly provided guidance and fathered Vaughn and Corey.

Beyond her academic achievements, Gloria was a devoted mother who poured her love and wisdom into her two cherished sons. Her traveling companion for sixteen years was Snowy, her Bichon Frise followed by Lana, a blue nose pit bull.

Family members welcoming Gloria to her eternal heavenly home were her parents, Crawford Lee & Genetta Jackson, Vaughn McClurkin, Sr., brother Byron Jackson and brother-in-law Michael Taylor.

Gloria leaves to cherish her memory husband Ronald Williams, sons Vaughn Alan and Corey Alex McClurkin, brothers Crawford Lee Jackson, Jr. and Alvin Jackson, sister Patty Harper (Mark), Aunts Gwendolyn Spates and Beatrice Boyd. Nephews Emil Jackson and Alvin Jackson Jr., Nieces Camil Jenkins and Dion McAllister, Great nieces, Imani Jenkins, Ava Jenkins, Aja Jenkins, Skylar Jenkins and Shakara Jackson. Great nephews, Emil Jackson, Jr., Alvin Jackson III, Damontae Jackson, Davontae Jackson and Judah Jenkins in addition to a host of loving cousins and relatives.

An interment for Gloria will be held Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 12:30 PM at Rose Hill Burial Park, 3653 W Market St, Akron, Ohio 44333. Following the interment will be a luncheon at 1:30 PM.