Gloria Francine Young, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and cherished friend, passed away leaving a legacy of compassion, selflessness, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. Her remarkable strength and empathy were shaped by a tough childhood, growing up with her six siblings in a home marked by poverty. Despite hardships, the siblings developed a powerful, unbreakable bond that carried them through the years—they remained close and supportive of each other until Gloria’s passing.

In the face of unimaginable tragedy, she endured the heartbreaking loss of her first child. With remarkable resilience, she welcomed three daughters. A tireless provider, Gloria often worked two or three jobs at a time to support her three daughters, teaching them the values of hard work, resilience, and unconditional love. She was the best caretaker to her children and grandchildren, always placing their needs above her own and nurturing them with boundless affection.

Gloria’s life was a testament to the power of a big heart and a generous spirit, touching countless lives through her tireless work and volunteerism. Gloria spent many years working at the Arkansas Sheriff’s Boys and Girls Ranch, where she poured her heart into supporting and uplifting young people in need. Her dedication continued through her service at the Battered Women’s Shelter, where she offered a helping hand and a listening ear to those seeking safety and hope.

For thirteen years, Gloria was a Certified Nursing Assistant at White River Medical Center. Her extraordinary commitment to phenomenal patient care earned her multiple awards and the respect and admiration of her colleagues and patients alike. Gloria always went the extra mile, seeing each patient as a person deserving of dignity and kindness.

Gloria also shared a deep and joyful bond with her wonderful close girlfriends. Together, they filled life with laughter and adventure—traveling, floating the river, dancing, attending concerts, and making countless cherished memories. Their friendship was a constant source of joy and strength, and the love they shared was a testament to the warmth and spirit Gloria brought to every relationship in her life.

Gloria’s legacy lives on in those she loved and cared for, in the lives she touched, and in the values she instilled. Her big heart, unwavering strength, and spirit of service will forever be remembered and cherished by all who knew her.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Winfred & Ethel Young; her beloved daughter, Terrie Lynn Beasley; her siblings, Jimmy Randle Young, Carolyn Raye Hooper, and Maredith May Rice; her brother-in-law, Paul Wesley Fike; her nephew, Jimmy Randle Hooper; and her nieces, April Annett Hooper & Shelley Elaine Fike.

She is survived by her loving daughters; Jillean Francine Beasley (Ralph Foster), Brittnie Renea Clark (Scott), Jalesa Daryl Reed (Brandon) her grandchildren; Madison Marguerite Manor, Samuel Gentry Ray Tarpley, William Gauge Tarpley, Michael Martin Reed, Brynleigh Louise Clark, Rossann Hazel Reed, and Dottie Dale Reed; her great grandchildren; Hadley Mae Tarpley and Loretta Lynn Tarpley; her brothers; Terry Neal Young and David Franklin Young (Barbara); her sister; Patricia Elaine Fike; as well as many beloved extended family members and friends.

A graveside memorial service will be held at Maple Springs Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery, Friday, April 10th, at 10:00 a.m. Visitation will be at Doty Funeral Home in Southside on Thursday, April 9th, from 6-8 p.m.

Pallbearers: Terry Young, David Young, Michael Hooper, Brandon Reed, Ralph Foster, Scott Clark

Honorary Pallbearer: Michael Reed