Gloria Louise Melton

“To everything there is a season, and time to every purpose under heaven; a time to be born and time to die; a time to plant and time to pluck up that which is planted; a time to weep, a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.”

Ecclesiastes 3:1-4

Gloria Louise Melton, the first-born child of the late John Joel Banks and Mary Virginia Banks, was born on January 27, 1926, in Hoboken, New Jersey. On Friday, October 27, 2023, after 97 years, life ended for her on earth and began for her in heaven. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Malachi Melton and her sister, Barbara Wilkins and her daughter, Alexis Littles.

Bereaved by her loss, but celebrating her life are her son, Greg Melton, and her sister, Gladys Pugh in Chicago; her grandchildren, Tonya Melton (Ron Shemet), Kendall Melton and Anthony Melton; three great-granddaughters, Taylor, Sophia, and Sonya; host of nephews, nieces, and friends.

At an early age, Gloria came to live in the coal fields of West Virginia. After graduating from high school, Gloria moved to New York City. After living several years in New York, she married Thomas Melton, who was living in Detroit, Michigan. They were married for 63 years.

Initially, after moving to Detroit, Gloria was a stay-at-home housewife. Later she wanted to start a career, so she attended cosmetology school to become a beautician. Later, she went to work for Sanders Bakery as a waitress. She did such a great job at Sanders, she was promoted to area training manager.

In 2006, Gloria and her late husband relocated to Queen Creek, Arizona. Gloria was a loving mother and liked to meet her neighbors. She loved to cook and especially loved trying new recipes.

Graveside services will be conducted on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at noon at the Mariposa Gardens cemetery in Mesa, Arizona. Viewing will take place at 11:30 am in the mortuary.

The Acknowledgements

We offer our heartfelt thanks to everyone who provided emotional and caring support for us at this time. We are truly grateful for your presence and please continue to pray for our daily strength in the Lord.

~ The Melton Family