Gloria Marie Smith

March 21, 1963 – March 4, 2026

On the fourth day of March, Gloria Marie Smith (née Keith) peacefully transitioned to the spiritual realm,

surrounded by the enduring love and reverence of her family. She is survived by her two daughters, Jamee

Toman and Maleaha Davis; her two grandchildren, Edward and Elizabeth; and her sister Linda (Keith)

Dennis; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding her in passing: husband Thomas Eding; her

parents Gloria (Flack) Keith and Arvil Keith, Sr.; brothers Paul, Edward, Arvil, and Michael.

True to her nature, Gloria’s effortless grace, tenacity, and strength of spirit was present from the instant

she was born into this world, and she carried these qualities through to the end of her life in the physical

realm. A titan of a soul – the fiercest of protectors, an unwavering beacon of integrity and justice – Gloria

was the type of person who was there for those who needed support, providing care and warmth from a

place of unconditional love and compassion. Gloria embodied a radiance of inner light that was unique in

its purity, and she so generously shared that light with all her family and friends. Though Gloria

maintained close bonds with many people throughout her lifetime, she was an exceptionally wonderful

mother and grandmother, who felt and conveyed great pride in her daughters, grandson, and

granddaughter.

Gloria was a particularly keen music historian and enthusiast throughout her life, able to delve into deep

conversations, easily citing obscure details and facts regarding a myriad of artists over several eras and

genres. With a gypsy flair to compliment her natural beauty, Gloria was often admired for original and

elegant style. She was unassuming in this admiration, never aware of how truly lovely she was, both

outside and inside. Her gentleness and compassion extended to all beings, and she loved many souls:

dogs, cats, birds, horses, and even deer, who loved her equally in turn. Through hardship and adversity,

Gloria persevered with awe-inspiring steadfastness and determination, setting an example of strength for

those closest to her. Gloria’s beautiful essence and energy did not overtly attract attention to itself but

rather imperceptibly drew others together, with her sharp intellect, insightful wisdom, and witty humor,

becoming an anchor point that instantly eased tensions and encouraged unity in any place she was

present.

Her everlasting gift to this world, Gloria’s brilliant light will continue to emanate. While we have been

privileged with the nearly 63 years granted to us, there are no words that will ever truly convey how much

Gloria’s physical presence is already missed by all who love and cherish her so deeply.