Gloria Jean Bazar Smith, 81, was born November 23, 1944, in Victoria, Texas, and passed away March 12, 2026. She lived in Olin, North Carolina. Those who knew her best simply knew her as Gloria—a kind-hearted, honest, compassionate woman whose presence was both steady and unforgettable.
Gloria was a nurse’s assistant who cared deeply for people. In a role built on patience and tenderness, she brought a soft heart and a genuine respect for others into the everyday work of helping, comforting, and showing up for people when they needed it most.
At home, Gloria was the guardian of her family. She loved her people fiercely, and she especially loved watching her grandchildren swim—content to sit and take it all in, proud of them, happy just to be near them.
Gloria also found joy in natural beauty. She loved working with plants, tending to what grew, and surrounding herself with the quiet comfort of living things. She was a member of the Roman Catholic Church, and her faith was part of the foundation from which she loved and cared for others.
Gloria was exceptionally feisty and “told it like it is.” She was a good person—well respected by others—not because she tried to impress, but because she was real. Honest to the core, she carried a strength that could be felt, and a compassion that could be trusted.
Gloria was preceded in death by her father, Charlie Bazar; her mother, Guadalupe Rosas Nunez-Bazar; and her son, Jim Smith.
She is survived by her husband, William Cordell Smith of Olin, North Carolina; her sons, Rudy Lee Smith (Pam) of Olin, North Carolina, and Abel Smith (Carol) of Statesville, North Carolina; her daughter, Vicky Wrenn (David) of Hempstead, North Carolina; and her brother, Albert Nunez (Kathy) of Statesville, North Carolina. Gloria also leaves to cherish her memory eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Gloria was laid to rest at Harmony City Cemetery in Harmony following a private ceremony.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.
Condolences and messages of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.bunchjohnsonfuneralhome.com
Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home of Statesville is honored to be entrusted with the care of Gloria and her family.
