Reverend Dr. Gloria L. Stephens

Born on September 3, 1942, in Apopka, Florida, Reverend Dr. Gloria L. H. Stephens was the beloved daughter of the late Mr. Charlie Willie Holmes and Mrs. Farices Truth Holmes. Dr. Stephens’ professional life was defined by excellence, leadership, and a deep commitment to helping others. She began her career at Martin Marietta in Orlando, Florida. She served as a Registered Head Nurse at Mercy and Florida Hospital. Her passion for healthcare and education led her to become Director of Education with a focus on Diabetes Education. As a Nursing Adjunct Professor, she inspired and mentored countless students with her wisdom, compassion, and dedication. She concluded her distinguished career as a retired administrator with Orange County Public Schools, leaving a lasting impact on the community. Her service extended far beyond her professional accomplishments. A proud and active member of Nu Iota Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated in Maitland, Florida, she exemplified the organization’s commitment to sisterhood and service. Answering her spiritual calling, she served faithfully with the South Apopka Ministerial Alliance, as the first African American Chaplain for the Ocoee Police Department, with National Baptist USA, and as a Secretary for the Progressive Senior Citizen Club. She also served as a Board Member for Charter High Schools in Apopka, Aloma, and Chancery, contributing her leadership and vision to educational advancement. Dr. Stephens embraced life with joy and curiosity. Her love for travel took her across the globe—from the vibrant landscapes of Africa to the peaceful beauty of Canada. Whether attending conferences, church gatherings, or sorority events, she lived each experience fully. At home, she found joy in reading, music, and playing golf with her grandson. She was a familiar and cherished presence at art and music festivals, celebrating creativity and culture. Above all, she treasured her time with family and friends, nurturing those relationships with warmth, humor, and grace. Dr. Gloria L. H. Stephens, as a beacon of light and love, peacefully departed this life on April 8, 2026, at the age of 83. Surrounded by her devoted family, she transitioned from her earthly home, leaving behind a legacy of faith, compassion, and service that will be cherished by all who knew and loved her. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Willie Mae Holmes; and her brothers, Luther Earl Holmes, Jimmy Holmes Sr., and Kerry Donovan Holmes. She leaves to cherish her memory her loving daughter, Joy Stribling (Peter); her treasured grandchildren, Diego Henry Jr. (Kimberly), Tyler Matthew Stribling, and great-grand-daughter, Zoe Henry, who brought immeasurable joy to her life; her dear siblings, Charlie Mae Warren, Eddie Carl Holmes Sr., Rosemary Simmons (Robert), and Brenda Holmes; and sisters in-law, Alfreda Henderson and Rose Henderson; along with a host of extended family members and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts. In honoring the life of Reverend Dr. Gloria L.H. Stephens, we celebrate a woman of unwavering faith, boundless love, and enduring service. Her legacy will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

Tributes

Reverend Dr. Gloria L. Stephens

September 3, 1942 - April 8, 2026