Born in north Florida on October 27, 1931. When she was a young girl, she, along with her mother and father, Ola and Joe Davis relocated to Durant, Florida area where she lived near there Durant the balance of her life.
On September 30, 1951, Gladys married C.L. “Buck” Brown, Jr. They raised two sons, Johnny and Ray. They farmed together for years, growing mustard greens, collards, cabbage and occasionally strawberries. Later in life, after they retired, they enjoyed going fishing and spending time together.
Gladys and Buck were married for 44 years until he went home to be with the Lord in August 1995.
Gladys and James Stanaland were married on October 17, 1999. They enjoyed attending church along with Bible studies groups. They spent 6 years together before James was called home to be with the Lord after a lengthy illness in 2005.
Gladys had many interests throughout the years. She was an exceptional cook of southern favorite main dishes and sides. Some of the family favorites, still to this day, include dressing, chicken and dumplings, spareribs, and corn casserole to name just a few. She was an accomplished baker, too. Ray always asked for German Chocolate cake for his birthday and still fondly remembers how good it was. Sunday dinner at Grandma Brown’s was always a special occasion filled with lots of good memories and, of course, great food.
Gladys was very proud of her beautiful and colorful yard. She would spend hours planting, pruning, cutting, and decorating the yard. You would frequently find her sitting on a swing or chair listening to the birds, feeling the breeze blowing through the trees, and the melodic sound of the different wind chimes she had placed throughout the yard.
Until later in life, she hosted an annual ladies get together. She looked forward to getting together with them, Lois, Frances, Lucille, Betty, and Marietta. They would spend 3 or 4 days together, enjoying eating out, shopping and reminiscing. They always had a “Big Time” together! Gladys had a wonderful sense of humor, a quick wit, and loved to laugh. She always had a smile for family and friends when visiting in person or on the telephone.
Gladys was raised in the Assembly of God Church. She had the noted honor of being the longest member of Turkey Creek Assembly of God Church (known today as Transforming Life Church) at 73 years. Her aunt, Sister Harrell, began Turkey Creek Assembly of God Church in 1950. Gladys was active in several Bible study groups that would meet weekly or monthly either at the Church or several restaurants around town. At church, she was active in a social group known as “Sassy Sisters”. It was always a fun time when they got together! For weeks before the Strawberry Festival began, you would find her stemming strawberries for the Church’s booth. She always looked forward to lending a helping hand to the Church. Gladys made many, true-blue, long-lasting friendships at the Church, each friendship was cherished, looked upon fondly, and each held a special place in her heart.
Late afternoons you would find Gladys reading her Bible and deep in prayer. Gladys genuinely loved with her heart; she prayed and was a prayer warrior; she believed in the power of prayer and the Lord granting miracles.
Those that proceeded her in death, late husband, C.L. “Buck” Brown, Jr., late husband, James Stanaland, son, Johnny Brown, grandson, Joshua Brown and parents, Ola and Joe Davis.
Blessed with a tight knit, blended family, Gladys leaves behind a legacy of love that will be carried forward by her son, Ray (Karen) Brown, bonus son Larry (Mary) Stanaland, granddaughter, Keisha (Michael) White, grandson, Jared Brown, two bonus grandsons Gregory (Ashley) Mouradian, Andrew (Lindsay) Mouradian, six beautiful greatgrandchildren affectionally called “Grands” Johnny, Christian, Aleah, Kaylee, Harper, and Flynn. Sister-in-law Lois Stanaland, Aunt Sarah Hartzog along with many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
As we bid farewell to Gladys Brown Stanaland, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a soul that will continue to shine brightly in the memories of those she loved. Her spirit, a guiding light of love and faith, will forever remain in our hearts.
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