Gladys Howard

Gladys Brayboy Howard, who was born on June 11, 1943, and passed away on September 6, 2026, was a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend whose life was marked by love, devotion, and quiet strength.

She was the wife of Jesse Howard, and together they shared a life built on commitment, companionship, and enduring care. Gladys was a loving mother to her daughter, Tammy Wilkinson, and her son, Melvin Cox, and she took great pride in the family she helped nurture. Her love extended warmly to her six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, each of whom brought joy and meaning to her life. She was also a cherished sister to Sarah Perkins, and the bond she shared with her family remained an important part of her life throughout the years.

Gladys was preceded in death by her parents, Marvin and Emmaline Brayboy, a daughter, Crystal Crisp, as well as her sisters, Fronie, Gert, Roselee, Mary, and Clover, and her brothers, Johnny and Tommy.

Those who knew Gladys will remember her as a woman of gentle spirit and steadfast character. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially in putting together puzzles, an interest that reflected her patience, focus, and appreciation for the satisfaction of completing something piece by piece.

A Celebration of her Homegoing will be held at 1pm on Thursday September 10, 2026 at McClure Funeral Service in Grham with Pastor Aaron Wall officiating. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 12pm-1pm prior to the service. Internment will follow in Graham Memorial Park.