Gloria Jean Vance, age 79, of Dothan, Alabama, passed away on August 10, 2026. Born on September 26, 1946, in Opelika, Alabama, she lived a life defined by kindness, devotion, and a deep love for the people and simple joys that made each day meaningful.
Gloria was a woman whose presence brought comfort and warmth to those around her. She was known for her loving spirit, her gentle manner, and the steady grace with which she carried herself through life. Family was always at the center of her world, and she treasured every moment spent with those she loved. Her life reflected the values she held most dear, and she leaves behind a legacy of tenderness, loyalty, and care that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her.
She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Curtis Robert Vance, with whom she shared a long and devoted marriage built on love, companionship, and mutual respect. She also leaves behind her daughter, Trent Mathis, and her son, Curtis Vance, Jr. (Tracy). Gloria was a proud grandmother to Reagan Mathis and Cameron Mathis, and she found great joy in the love and laughter of her family. She is also survived by her sister, Donna Creekbaum, and her great grand cat, Theo, who brought her comfort and companionship.
Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, J. Frank and Martha Reed, as well as her brother, Frank Reed, and her granddaughter, Kristie Mathis. Though her loved ones who passed before her are deeply missed, Gloria carried their memory with her throughout her life, honoring them through the strength of her character and the love she gave so freely to others.
A hardworking and dedicated woman, Gloria retired from Wells Fargo after a successful career. She approached her work with the same integrity and thoughtfulness that she brought to every part of her life. Her colleagues and those she served remember her as dependable, gracious, and caring, someone who treated others with respect and kindness. She took pride in doing her work well and in building relationships that reflected her genuine concern for people.
Outside of her career, Gloria found joy in the things that made life beautiful. She loved reading and could often be found enjoying a good book, taking comfort in quiet moments and meaningful stories. She had a special fondness for hummingbirds, whose delicate beauty and lively presence brought her delight. She also loved the beach, where she found peace in the sound of the waves and the calm of the shoreline. Most of all, she loved her family, and that love was evident in the way she cared for them, supported them, and made them feel valued and cherished.
Those who knew Gloria will remember her as a kind and loving woman whose heart was open to others. She had a way of making people feel welcome and cared for, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her life was a testament to the power of love, faithfulness, and quiet strength. Though her earthly journey has ended, the beauty of her life remains in the memories she created, the family she nurtured, and the love she shared so generously.
Gloria Jean Vance will be remembered with great affection and respect. Her life was rich in devotion, grace, and family love, and her memory will continue to be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who mourn her passing.
A celebration of Gloria’s life will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 2pm in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel.
Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com
