Gloria Maxine Sloan

Gloria Decker Sloan, 83, of Florence, Alabama, passed away on February 17, 2026. Born in Washington, D.C., on January 16, 1943, Gloria spent her childhood traveling the world as the daughter of a military officer. Those early experiences shaped her curiosity, independence, and appreciation for people from all walks of life. She graduated from Sidney Lanier High School in Montgomery in 1961, where she excelled as a champion swimmer, and later attended Auburn University and Georgia Southwestern College. Gloria’s professional life was as varied and creative as she was — she worked as an operator for AT&T, built a career as an independent artist, and operated a successful wall covering business in Florence for many years. Gloria had a remarkable ability to find beauty and possibility in unexpected places. Thrifting was her favorite pastime, and she became a familiar face at local thrift stores and yard sales, always on the lookout for a hidden treasure. She loved athletics and was an enthusiastic fan of all sports, especially football. She also had a lifelong love of animals, especially dogs and cats, caring for them with the same tenderness she showed the people she loved.

Gloria is survived by her brother, W.E. Decker, III (Ristin); her children, Chad Gillikin (Kim) and Tricia Scott (Rick Colvin); and her stepchildren, Mac Sloan (Donna), Janet Greenspan (Ian), Shannon Highfield (Gary), John Sloan (Jodie), and Richard Sloan. She was the proud grandmother of Chase Gallien (Mallory Kirk), Jake Gillikin (Laura), Tyler Scott (Brittany), Tanner Scott (Kristen), and Sam Gillikin (Cora), and the great-grandmother of eleven beloved great-grandchildren. She is also survived by former spouse James I. Gillikin, III and her special friend, Michael Hicks.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Col. and Mrs. W.E. Decker, II, and by her husband, Roy M. Sloan.

Above all, Gloria was defined by her warmth, generosity, and devotion to her family. She embraced the roles of mother, caregiver, and grandmother with her whole heart, and those who loved her will forever remember the joy, comfort, and unconditional love she brought into their lives. A private family gathering will be held at a future date.

In Lieu of Flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.