Gladys Constance Powers

Gladys Constance Powers, 94, of Reading, was called home on Sunday, June 28, 2015, at 10:27 a.m. in Manor Care Nursing Home, located in Sinking Spring, PA. She was affectionately known as "Shorty." Gladys was born September 11, 1920 in Fredericksburg, VA, a daughter of the late Isaiah and Sarah (Williams) Smith.

She came to Reading, PA, as a small child. Gladys graduated from Reading High School, and was a member of Zion Baptist Church. She retired from the Reading Hospital after working 25 years in the domestic department. She was a member of Mary Alice Temple #108 of Reading, PA. She acquired the highest rank of Past Granddaughter Ruler.

She leaves to cherish her memory 5 sons: Tyrone Sr. (Sue Ellen) Powers, David (Gail) Powers, Charles "Puggie" (Eileen Martin-Companion) Powers, Doc Powers, Ricky (Corrine) Powers; 4 daughters: Genevieve, widow of Carl Gumby Sr.; Loretta, widow of Curtis Colbert; Rosie, wife of Nonnie Singleton; and Gladys Camper. She was predeceased by her son, Alphonso Powers; and her siblings, 3 brothers: Isaiah, David, Joseph; and 6 sisters: Angie Cunningham, May Rose Good, Alice Jones, Aurelia Wheeler, Pauline Robertson and Rebecca Jackson. There are 23 grandchildren, 48 great-grandchildren, 16 great-great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Services will be Friday, July 3, 2015, at 11 a.m., in Zion Baptist Church, 224 Washington St., Reading. Burial to follow in Berks County Memorial Gardens. A viewing will be Friday, 10-11 a.m., in the church. Theo C. Auman Funeral Home, Reading, is entrusted with her services.