Gloria Sims

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On January 12, 2024 Gloria Sims was called home by our "Heavenly Father". She was born on January 17, 1931 to ArabeIle and William Martin. She was the third oldest child of six siblings. Four of her siblings have preceded her in death, Elsie Martin, Dorothy (Martin) Faison, Joseph Martin, and James Martin. Gloria is survived by her youngest sister, Mary (Martin) Harris.

Gloria was raised in Harlem, New York. She attended high school in Manhattan, New York at Central Commercial High School. She received a high school diploma upon completion. As a young adult, she worked at Grants Department Store, Chock-Full-O'nuts, and Gimbels Department Store in New York City. Upon moving to Tampa, Fla., she began а second career in the Hillsborough County School System.

Gloria married Edward Sims, Sr. Her children included Diane (Sims) Ellis, William Sims, Edward Sims, Jr., and Deborah (Sims) Patillo. Gloria and Edward had an amazing host of 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

Gloria's life will be remembered by her loving, gracious, and caring spirit. She made all who came into her presence feel special from the warmth of her personality. God has called her home to be amongst the angels, but her love and caring spirit will remain here on earth with those who were blessed to know her.

A funeral mass for Gloria will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, February 3, 2024 at Epiphany of Our Lord Catholic Church, 2510 East Hanna Avenue, Tampa, FL 33610.