Ida Mae Gleaton

Ida Mae Gleaton, lovingly known as “Ike,” passed away peacefully on November 16, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on July 30, 1940, in Springfield, South Carolina, she carried the spirit of her southern upbringing into a long and meaningful life shaped by resilience, humor, and a steadfast devotion to family. After making Washington, D.C. her home, Ida became a quiet pillar of strength — a woman who nurtured, guided, and covered those she loved with wisdom forged through both challenge and triumph.

She delighted in cooking heartfelt meals, found joy and healing in garden therapy, and never missed a moment to dance. Whether with family, friends, or her beloved aides, her laughter, her rhythm, and her sharp wit brought sunshine into every season of her life.

Ida leaves behind her devoted daughters — Melissa Veronica “Ronnie” Gleaton, Felicia Roxanna “Lisa” Gleaton, and Erica Jenise “Mooky” Gleaton — each of whom carries her strength, her love, and her fire forward.

She is survived by her cherished grandchildren — Brittany Foote, Demetrius Gleaton, Danielle Gleaton, Dylan Gleaton, Lillian Lee, Daisy Lee, and Robert Jamal “RJ” Thomas — and her great-grandson, D’Marj Chestnut, all of whom brought immense joy to her heart.

Ida is further survived by her beloved sisters — Clio Bailey and Lerlene “Lee” Collins of Cincinnati, Ohio — whose lifelong bond with her stands as a testament to enduring family devotion.

She was preceded in death by her son, Sylvester “Pudding” Gleaton; her oldest brother, Will Henderson; and her youngest brother, John Henderson — each of whom she loved deeply and remembered often.

She also leaves behind a wide circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors, and lifelong friends who will forever carry her memory. Her legacy is found in every person she nurtured, every lesson she shared, and every seed of love she planted — in gardens, in hearts, and across generations.

Ida’s spirit will forever remain a covering over her family, her laughter a melody in their memories, and her strength a foundation beneath their feet.