Robert Henry Gladden

Our Beloved Brother, Uncle, Cousin and Friend was healed of all afflictions when His Heavenly Father called him home July 5, 2017 at 4:30 AM at the age of 79. Although it grieves us greatly not to have him with us, we rejoice that he suffers no more. Bob was born February 27, 1938, on his Father’s birthday, to John Henry and Elva Welch Gladden. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Nancy Heard. On July 15, 1957, Bob’s life was changed when the car he was working under fell on him. His back was broken and the spinal column was damaged. The doctors did not think he would ever walk again and probably would not live beyond 50 years of age. With a wonderful outlook on life and a strong will to adjust to his physical impairments, he overcame so many things that amazed us all. He was an inspiration and blessing to his family and his many friends. We have so many wonderful stories and memories about Bob that we will always treasure. He brought much laughter, joy and encouragement to those who had the privilege of being a part of his daily life. He was blessed with a wonderful family and so many friends and yet, he blessed us so much more than we could ever bless him. Bob and his Father developed and managed Gladden Mobile Home Park. After his Father’s death in 1988, Bob continued managing the park. Surviving Bob are his sisters, Jean Johnston and her husband Hoyt Johnston; sister, Brenda Gladden; nephews, Wesley Johnston and wife Lee, Eric Johnston and wife Jessica; nieces, Melanie Johnston, Suzette Barker and husband David; great nephews, Jimi Gibson and wife Lina, Derrick Barker, Hunter Johnston, Samuel Norwood Galen Johnston, Will Johnston; great nieces, Serenity, Kelsey and Elleigh Johnston. Families of the heart: Paul and Soo Hsu, Michael and Michelle Hsu, Snookie Deese, the Byrums of Belmont. Special thanks to the West Mecklenburg Fire Dept, his care giver, Shavon Thompson and neighbors, Snookie Deese, George Jones, Susan Byrd and Lawrence Crump. Memorials may be made to West Meck. Fire Dept. or a charity of your choice. Funeral services will be Sunday, July 9, 2017 at Forest Lawn West at 2:00 pm with Reverend Robert Chambers and Elder Jim Johnston officiating. Receiving of friends will be from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm. Interment will follow the service in Forest Lawn West Cemetery. Arrangements by Forest Lawn West.

Arrangements under the direction of Forest Lawn West Funeral & Cremation Service, Charlotte, NC.