Gladys Louise Brown

Gladys Louise Luzader Brown, 96, passed away on August 24, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of strength, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit and will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew her. Born in East Pittsburgh on April 4, 1929, daughter of the late Homer and Kathryn (Susco) Luzader and preceded in death by her son, Martin Brown (d. 9/2/21), and brothers Donald, Eugene and Homer Luzader. As a loving and supportive mother, she is survived by her daughter, Bonita Power (Brown), devoted grandmother to Alanna Power, and proud great-grandmother to Krystal Long and Rayne Dustan. She is survived by her sister, Barbara Basa (Bloomington, IN) and brothers James Luzader (Pittsburgh, PA), and Harry Luzader (Monroeville, PA).

Gladys led a remarkable life as a successful business owner, interior designer, remodeler, and ceramic artist. Her hands shaped not only homes but works of art across many mediums. After World War II, she moved to Cleveland, Ohio working at major companies before opening, as co-owner, the “Open Pantry Food Mart”, a well-known convenience grocery store in Richmond Hts., Ohio. Years later, she moved to Phoenix to open a franchise restaurant. When the franchise collapsed just before opening, Gladys—at age 60—designed her own concept, created original recipes, and launched “The Healthy Heart”, a thriving restaurant recognized by Phoenix New Times as the “Best Place to Eat Heart Smart,” with features in Tempe Magazine and Costco Magazine. After selling her restaurant, Gladys continued working until the age of 72, then devoted herself fully to her art. She remained creatively active, producing original designs until just four months before her passing. She lived to witness four generations of women—daughter, granddaughter, and great-granddaughters—each shaped by her love, wisdom, brilliance, resilience, and enduring presence.

Gladys will be laid to rest on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the “Valley of the Sun Mortuary & Cemetery” at 10940 E Chandler Heights Rd, Chandler, AZ 85248.