Gloria Jean Williams, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, went home to be with the Lord on February 5, 2025, at the age of 78. Gloria was born January 28, 1947, in Superior, WI to Reuben and Violet (Peterson) Casper.
Gloria graduated from Superior Central High School in 1965 and the University of Wisconsin-Superior in 1969, with a degree in teaching. Gloria met her devoted husband, Gene, in 1967 while at UWS. They were married on August 30, 1969, at Ogden Avenue Baptist Church, and were blessed with 55 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, family, friendships and a strong faith in God. Gloria loved her children and adored her granddaughters. She always looked forward to being a grandmother and received so much joy from her role in their lives.
In 1969, Gloria began her career as a teacher in Cable, WI before she and Gene eventually settled in Greendale, WI to raise their three children. Gloria later worked in the Greendale School District in food service and as a substitute teacher until 1996.
Gloria was a gracious host, a lifelong learner, and a devoted community and church volunteer. Her greatest gift was how she loved—with intention, devotion, and generosity. An avid seamstress and quilter, Gloria was known for her sewing talent. She had a close group of friends that would regularly get together for quilting and fellowship. Gloria always held a special place in her heart for Brazil and Mexico after traveling to each country for missions' trips.
Gloria was an active member for many years at Redeemer EFC. A highlight, and favorite memory for many, was SonLife X-tra puppet troupe, a traveling children's ministry Gloria started and led for many years, in addition to making all their beautiful puppets. Besides her own children, many youths were positively impacted by this special experience for over 15 years. Gloria was also involved in her church Choir, Women's Ministry, and teaching Sunday School. Gloria was a role model and mother figure to many, with a formidable faith and heartfelt advice for all those she knew and loved.
Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Reuben and Violet Casper; sister, Nancy Wasyluk; niece, Amber Casper; nephews, Loren Meller, Christopher Wasyluk; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Eddie and Ruby Williams; sister-in-law Joan Miller; and brothers-in-law Dick Carlson, Wayne Yadon, Doug Herstad, Bob Miller, Steve Wasyluk, Gary Williams, Glenn Harris.
A loving wife and mother, Gloria is survived by her husband, Gene Williams; children, Matthew, Danny (Olivia), and Carla Williams; granddaughters, London and Macy Williams; sister, Donna Herstad; brother, Tom (Mary) Casper; sisters-in-law, Gerry Harris, Joyce Yadon, Judy (Gary) Meller, Linda Williams; and many nieces and nephews.
Gloria will be dearly missed by her family and all who knew her, but we receive comfort and peace knowing that she is with her Savior.
A Memorial Service will be held at Noon on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Redeemer Evangelical Free Church, 7735 W. Howard Ave., Milwaukee, with a Visitation beginning at 10 a.m. Luncheon to follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Redeemer EFC.
Arrangements by Hartson Funeral Home, Hales Corners, WI.
Private burial to be held at a later date.