Gloria Jean Mary Hillenburg

Gloria Jean Hillenburg (TURTLE LADY OF OCEAN ISLE BEACH). Gloria Jean Hillenburg, 81, of Shallotte, NC, passed away on March 9, 2024. Gloria was born on August 13, 1942, to Norman and Rosalie Hillenburg in Baltimore, MD.

Gloria was predeceased by her daughter Renee Lynn Meeker; and sister, Kay Hillenburg and Godson Dewaine Hillenburg. She is survived by her daughters, Yvonne Jean Andres, Yvette Anne Mabry, and Michelle Mary Meeker. Her brothers Norman and Neal Hillenburg. Her five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Her Godchildren Jamie Meeker and Tyler Hillenburg. Former husband Jerry Traywick and his wife Jo; and Bill Breeding her long-time companion.

Gloria lived an eventful life and was known as The Turtle Lady, in Shallotte, NC. She started the Sea Turtles of the North Carolina Coast program in the early 1980's and worked relentlessly alongside the Army Corp of Engineers in Ocean Isle Beach, NC with saving the lives of sea turtles.

Gloria had a great love for her family and friends and will be greatly missed by all.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Baltimore, MD on a future date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City, NC.