WILMINGTON — Gladys Jones Outlaw, 91, of the Middle Sound Community, went peacefully to be with her Lord Friday, July 24, 2020, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born Feb. 28, 1929, in Portsmouth, Virginia, to the late Johnnie Robert Jones and Emma Jane Bradshaw Jones.
Gladys was preceded in death by her husband, James Wilfred Outlaw; son, James Michael Outlaw Sr.; and beloved sister, Shirley Leigh Jones.
She leaves behind to cherish in their memories, daughter, Myra Outlaw Nevarez (Sam); grandchildren, Hannah Nevarez (Myles Strickland) and James Michael Outlaw Jr. (Mallory); and special niece, Susan Bauswell (Mike).
She married the love of her life, James Wilfred Outlaw on Oct. 3, 1952, in Drivers, Virginia. They moved to the Wilmington area in 1955 and settled in the Middle Sound Community to start their family.
Their home soon became a place where families and church friends would often come to fellowship. Children would swim and play in Pages Creek, and many lasting relationships and memories were formed during these times.
Gladys served as the secretary of Ogden Baptist Church during the early years when the church was formed. She was actively involved in all aspects of the church, particularly in teaching Sunday school and hosting bible studies, where she could share God’s love with others. Gladys’ love for Jesus still resonates with those whom she has touched.
Her time at work started at the downtown Wilmington Hilton in the banquet department with many dear friends at her side. She also worked at Ryan’s Steakhouse in Wilmington for several years. Her final work was in the cafeteria at Ogden Elementary School during the precious time her granddaughter, Hannah, was attending school.
Gladys and her daughter, Myra, shared a special relationship. They would hardly ever be seen without each other. Their favorite saying was “we will be home in a little bit,” which usually meant a few hours.
Gladys loved her grandchildren and cherished the time with them in all their activities. She was so proud of all their accomplishments and their growth as adults.
Visitation will be held from 1 to 2 p.m., Thursday, July 30, at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S. 41st St., Wilmington. Funeral services will follow the visitation at 2 p.m., with burial at 3 p.m., which will be located in Greenlawn Memorial Park, 1311 Shipyard Blvd., Wilmington.
Share online condolences with the family at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation.
