

Gloria Mae Nalls-Yeager-Orme, a beloved mother, accomplished attorney, gifted musician, and woman of remarkable determination, departed this life on October 23, 2026. Born on March 30, 1948, at Old Providence Hospital in Southeast Washington, D.C., Gloria lived a life defined by perseverance, intellect, service, and a deep appreciation for family and community.
Early Life and Family
Gloria was the daughter of Lavinia Mae Bolton-Nalls and Calvin John Nalls, Sr. She grew up in Southeast Washington, D.C., in a three-story family home on 12th Street, where many of her earliest memories were formed. The home was filled with family traditions, neighborhood connections, and the sounds of gospel music that would help shape her life.
From an early age, Gloria demonstrated a natural gift for music. At approximately four years old, she began listening to young men practicing gospel music in a neighboring row house. Fascinated by their singing, she taught herself to play the piano and sing their songs. By the age of seven, she had become the youngest member of her church choir at Christ Church. She continued developing her musical abilities, teaching herself to read music and learning songs by ear. Music remained a meaningful part of her childhood and reflected her determination to learn and grow.
Gloria cherished the experiences and lessons of her upbringing, carrying the values of hard work, resourcefulness, and independence throughout her life.
Education and Professional Accomplishments
Gloria's commitment to education and professional excellence was evident throughout her journey. She attended Buchanan Elementary School in Washington, D.C., Thomas S. Stone Elementary School, and Mt. Rainier Junior High School in Maryland before graduating from Northwestern High School in Hyattsville, Maryland, in 1966.
Gloria built an impressive career in the legal profession, serving in several positions that reflected her intelligence, discipline, and dedication to public service. Her professional journey included work with the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, where she served in roles involving legal secretarial and attorney support responsibilities.
She subsequently worked in private legal practice, including with the law office of attorney Alexander Williams, Jr., before serving with the State's Attorney's Office in Prince George's County, Maryland. Her career reflected a commitment to the law and to making meaningful contributions through her knowledge and professional experience.
Gloria's accomplishments stand as a testament to the power of determination and the importance of pursuing one's goals with confidence and purpose.
A Woman of Many Talents
Beyond her professional achievements, Gloria possessed a creative and adventurous spirit. She enjoyed music, dancing, singing, and participating in activities that brought people together. Her early experiences in church choirs and her self-taught piano skills revealed a lifelong willingness to embrace challenges and develop her talents.
Her personal writings also reflected a woman who valued independence, practical wisdom, family history, and the lessons learned through life's joys and difficulties. She approached her experiences with a strong sense of self and a desire to preserve the stories that shaped her journey.
Family and Legacy
Family remained an important part of Gloria's life story. She was the mother of Matthew John Yeager and Michael John Yeager, and she took pride in documenting their births and the experiences surrounding their early years. She was also the loving and supportive grandmother to Ashley Yeager and Kayla Yeager.
She was preceded in life by her loving husband Earle Thomas Orme Jr, her parents, Lavinia Mae Bolton-Nalls and Calvin John Nalls, and her brothers, Calvin John Nalls, Jr.
Gloria leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond professional titles and educational accomplishments. Her story is one of a Washington, D.C., native who embraced education, developed her gifts, pursued a demanding career, and recorded her life experiences for future generations.
Her journey reminds us that a life is measured not only by what one accomplishes, but also by the courage to pursue new opportunities, the lessons shared with others, and the memories preserved along the way.
As family and friends reflect upon Gloria's life, may they find comfort in the memories they shared, pride in her accomplishments, and peace in knowing that her story will continue to be remembered.
May her life, her accomplishments, and the legacy she leaves behind be cherished always.
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