Gladys Aline Kirkley, 82, of Pageland, SC passed away peacefully on October 8, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. She was born on March 29, 1942 in Chesterfield, South Carolina to the late Clyde Monroe Hartis and Ashia McManus Hartis. She is also predeceased by her son, Christopher Dale Moree Kirkley; brothers, Jack Hartis and Harold Hartis and sisters, Bonnie Birt and Louise Patterson Windham.

Gladys, known affectionately to her family and friends by her first name, was a beacon of light and strength in her community. She spent her final days in Pageland, South Carolina, surrounded by the love and warmth of her family.

Her spirit was a testament to the values she held dear, and she instilled those same values in her daughters, Deanna Bailey (Leon) of Pageland, SC, and Dawn Kirkley of Marietta, SC. Her sister, Dianne Moree Oliver (Jerry) of Jefferson, SC, shared in the journey of life with Gladys, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Gladys was the proud grandmother to Austin Bailey (Julie), Aisha Brown (Ben), Pete Bailey, Chastina Bailey, Emma Bailey and Anna Bailey. Her role as a grandmother was one she cherished deeply, and her influence will live on through them. The joy of her life multiplied with the arrival of her four great-grandchildren, Ralyn Bailey, Rosa Leigh McIntyre, Silas McFarland and Solomon McFarland.

Her interests were a reflection of her love for God's creation. Gladys was a faithful attendee of Union Hill Baptist Church, where she embraced her community and found great comfort in her faith. Her hands were rarely still, as she found pleasure in tending to her garden, nurturing the earth and cultivating beauty in every corner. Yard work was not a chore for Gladys but a pastime that allowed her to connect with nature and revel in the satisfaction of a well-kept home.

Gladys also had a keen eye for treasures, often venturing to yard sales and thrift shops where she would find items to repurpose and bring new life to. Her creativity was evident in every project she undertook, and her handy skills ensured that everything she touched was left better than before. She loved helping with Vacation Bible School each year. She was the one you could always find washing the dishes at church after each meal.

There will be a Celebration of Life Funeral Service on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at 12:00 PM at Union Hill Baptist Church with Pastor Robin Hewett officiating.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at Union Hill Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Union Hill Baptist Church, C/O Children's Church, please send memorials to Brenda Sullivan, 268 Cato Heights Lane, Pageland, SC 29728.

Arrangements entrusted to Baumgartner Funeral Home of Pageland, South Carolina (www.baumgartnerfh.com)