Tony Gladden

Tony Gladden, 66, of Sherwood, AR passed away unexpectedly July 19th, 2026. Tony was born in Chattanooga, TN, and spent his formative years in nearby Rossville, GA surrounded by his immediate and extended family. His early years turned into many stories, told by himself and others who were there to bear witness. These stories eventually grew into something closer to tall tales enjoyed like fireside chats.

Around 12 years old, his revered uncle, Robert Gladden “Uncle Cotton”, introduced Tony to the game of golf. Little did anyone know at the time, but this would become a passion Tony would enjoy (and excel at) his entire life, as a “scratch” golfer well into his 60’s. Tony loved to introduce the game of golf to others and cultivate their love for it and had endless patience for helping anyone on their golfer’s journey.

Tony worked as a finance director in the car business in both Texas and Arkansas and made numerous lifelong friends through his time in the business. Tony had a legendary work ethic that speaks to something beyond his willingness to work hard - Tony cared. Tony cared about the outcome of anything he put his name on and cared even more about the people he shared a trench with in accomplishing a shared goal. Whether it was a major project or just mowing the grass, Tony believed in doing things the right way. He cared about the goal more than he did himself and was always willing to sacrifice his momentary comfort for the greater good. His work ethic and insistence on putting his needs behind those of others, made him a man to admire.

But perhaps Tony’s most important work came as a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Pam Gladden. They spent nearly 30 jubilant years together that produced countless laughs and new friendships, and along the way created a marriage we all would envy. They both wore their heart on their sleeves and gave you their genuine selves in every moment. They were the type of people who laughed in the face of tradition but somehow found themselves in a very traditional love story. Irreverence was often their love language, but they held a deep reverence for the things that really mattered in life. They were both better people as a result of their love for one another, and their love remains a guiding light for the people who were lucky enough to experience it.

Tony is preceded in death by his cherished wife, Pamela Cay Gladden, his father Franklin Delano Gladden, and his mother Johnnie Mai Wiggleton.

Tony is survived by his brother Delano Gladden (Marilyn), his 3 stepsons, Barry Capps (Natalie), Blaine Walker, and Judd Walker (Georgia), and his grandchildren Harden, Pate, Jacqueline Capps, and June Walker, dear cousins and many friends that Tony considered a part of his family. Family and friends will celebrate Tony in the coming week.

A Celebratrion of Life will be held at alater date.