Gladys Summers Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Jackson Funeral Residence of Jersey City on Dec. 31, 2024.
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Gladys Backmon Summers, a beloved matriarch, faithful servant, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 92. Born on August 12, 1932, in Bowman, South Carolina, Gladys was the daughter of the late Pernice Backmon and Wilson Backmon. She was preceded in death by her two brothers, Norbert Backmon and Wilson Backmon, who, along with her parents, helped shape her values of hard work, faith, and family.
Gladys dedicated 26 years of her life as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) at Pollack Hospital, touching countless lives with her compassionate care and tireless dedication. She retired at the age of 62, leaving behind a legacy of selflessness and kindness that inspired all who knew her.
A devoted and proud member of Mount Pisgah AME Church, Gladys's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She could often be found in worship, prayer, and service to her community, embodying the teachings of love and grace that she held so dear.
Gladys was married to the late Flegner Summers, and from that union they produced six children who were the pride of her heart: Kenneth Summers, Cynthia Daniels (husband: Erving Daniels), Larry Summers (wife: Ann Summers), Larraine Smith (husband: Clifton Smith, Jr.), Sherry Summers-McCredie (husband: Ronald McCredie), and the late Ricky Summers (wife: Charmaine Fortson-Summers). Her children remember her as a beacon of strength, wisdom, and unconditional love.
The joy of Gladys's life was her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whose laughter and presence brought her endless happiness. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren: Jeanine Summers (late husband: Rashon Hollis) and her children Bryce and Skye Hollis, and Bryce's son, Jeremiah; Cristal Dash (husband: Derrick Dash, Jr.); Kendall Daniels and his children Dasani and Imani; Rolonda Summers and her daughter Jalana Hallman; Sheena Summers; Kimberly Daniels; Ashley Smith; Brittany Marshall (husband: Dwight Marshall) and daughter Mariah Marshall; Larry Summers (husband: Levon Burton); and Brandon Summers (wife: Kelly Summers) and their daughter Jordan. She also shared a special bond with Brandon's mother, Felicia Nelson.
Gladys's love extended beyond her immediate family to a host of loving friends and relatives who were touched by her warmth, humor, and unwavering support. She cherished every moment spent with her family and friends, creating memories that will be treasured forever.
In addition to her parents and brothers, Gladys was predeceased by her great-grandson, Scott Michael, whose memory she carried close to her heart.
Gladys Summers will be remembered for her boundless love, her unwavering faith, and her indomitable spirit. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and devotion that will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know her. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of her family, friends, and community.