Gloria M. Willis

Mrs. Gloria M. Willis, 66, of Meridian gained her wings Saturday, August 5, 2017.

She was born in Lauderdale County, the oldest of 14 children to Leavie and Annie Pearl (Baylor) Cryer (both deceased).

Gloria started her early career in the bank and finance industry until she joined State Farm Insurance in 1978 where she worked for 25 year as a superintendent secretary; eventually retiring in 2004. However, Gloria worked tirelessly throughout the years in many organizations, such as the Ladies Auxiliary of the VFW, Sand Wedge Golf Association, Lauderdale County Tourism Board, Meridian Downtown Optimus Club and was instrumental in bringing the very first - First Tee Program to the state of Mississippi and serving as the Executive Director.

She leaves behind her husband of 44 years, Allan W. Willis, Sr.; two sons – Donald Cryer and Allan W. Willis, Jr. and daughter Xsiomara Robinson; 4 grandchildren – Taylor (Cryer) Bender, Shelby Cryer, Xavier Robinson and Kai Robinson; 1 great grandchild – Nina Bender; 15 siblings and a host of nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be Friday, August 11th from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at the Robert Barham Family Funeral Home. Service will be held on Saturday, August 12th starting at 1:00pm - Greater Outreach Missionary Baptist Church in Meridian.

In lieu of flowers, a scholarship will be formed in the name of Gloria M. Willis and proceeds raised will be granted to a young woman attending her first year of college. Scholarship will be in conjunction with the First Tee of Meridian. Please make check payable to: The First Tee of Meridian P.O. Box 8028 Meridian, MS 39303 – Memo: Gloria M. Willis Scholarship