Gloria Graham

W ith a mix of sadness and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Gloria Graham, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Gloria, a woman of deep faith and unwavering love, peacefully passed away on the morning of February 2nd, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on August 17, 1941, in North Platte, NE, to her parents, Gale and Irene Parker. She grew up on the family farm and attended a one room country school through elementary grades, then high school in Hershey.   She grew into a woman of remarkable grace and compassion, leaving a positive impact on everyone she encountered. After graduating from Kearney State College, Gloria dedicated herself to education, first teaching kindergarten in York, Nebraska, and later nurturing a love of reading as a librarian at Kearney State College.

In 1962, Gloria and her beloved husband, Gene Graham, embarked on a lifelong journey of love and devotion. Their marriage, a beautiful example of commitment and partnership, spanned over six decades. In 1985, they moved to Garner, NC, where Gloria continued her library work at St. Mary's Girls School, sharing her passion for knowledge with young minds.

During their time in North Carolina, Gloria found a spiritual home at St. Andrew's Methodist Church in Garner. She actively participated in the choir, lifting her voice in praise, and embraced the church community with her warm and caring nature. Her friendly spirit ensured that she never met a stranger.

In 2016, Gloria and Gene returned to Omaha to be closer to their family, a decision that brought immense joy to Gloria's heart. She embraced her role as "Momo," showering her grandchildren – Corbin (wife Malarie), Abigail, Zoe, Benjamin, and Chloe – and her great-granddaughter, Raenie, with boundless love and affection. She also held a special bond with Gwen "Cookie" Creath.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Gale and Irene Parker; her daughter, Rae Jean Graham, and her brother, Jeff Parker.

Her memory will be forever cherished by her husband, Gene; her children, Brian (Amy) Graham and Terry Graham; daughter- in -law, Gwen Matlock-Graham; her siblings, Denny Parker and Betsy (Parker) Peterson; her sister-in-law, Dee Parker; and her niece, Tobi Lynn Parker, along with Tobi's son Austin and his wife Casey Parker.

Gloria's life was a beautiful testament to the power of love, faith, and family. Her gentle spirit, kind heart, and those memorable phrases, like "Love you good," will remain in our hearts forever.  Love you good, Momo.

Celebration of Gloria's life will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, May 3, at Hershey Methodist Church with Pastor Mark Baldwin officiating.  Inurnment will follow at the Hershey Trinity Lutheran Cemetery.  Online condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com.  Arrangements are with Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore.