Gloria Dean Hess

Gloria Dean Stockard Hess was born on March 21, 1956, in Jackson, Michigan, to Lydia Clay and Edward Clarence Murray. She graduated from Jackson High School in 1974.

Gloria was full of life, joy, and a beautiful spirit that was felt by everyone who knew her. She loved going to the casino, playing the lottery, and most of all, spending time with her family and friends. Her laughter, warmth, and generous heart created memories that will forever be cherished.

In time, Gloria moved to Decatur, Illinois, where she met the love of her life, John Ed Hess. They were united in marriage on August 30, 2003. After John's passing in 2016, Gloria returned to Jackson, Michigan, where she continued to live close to her family and those she loved dearly.

On Sunday, November 9, 2025, Gloria made her peaceful transition, surrounded by love.

She was preceded in death by her bonus fathers, Johnathan Stockard and Samuel Clay; and siblings Annie Mae Clay, Flamingo "Flame" Brown, and Charlotte Yvonne Thompson.

Gloria leaves to forever cherish her memory her sons: Ronald William Newcomb and Jeffery Lyn Ervin Jr.; her daughters: Lenise Michelle Newcomb, Lydia Marie Powell, and Barbara Lanette Newcomb; her brothers: James David Stockard, Jonathan Sylvester Stockard, Terry Russell Murray, Edward Steven Murray, Gregory Alan Murray, James Patrick Murray, Samuel Clay (Evie), and Timothy Clay (Michele); her sisters: Farina Brooks (James Sr.), Cheryl Lyn Murray, Deborah Long (Kevin), Barbara Irons (Anthony), Gladys Clay, and Darlene Foreman (Carlton); and her grandchildren: Shaquanda Hoard, Jaquan Newcomb, Shanice Boland, Kiara Nichols, Mariye Oneal, Manzell Hunt, Azari'a Baker, Maziah Pickens, Jabaire Boyd, Jezri Ervin, Zi'aire Pickens, and Zi'maya Pickens.

She is also survived by 12 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family members, and dear friends.

Gloria's life was a testament to love, resilience, and family. Her light, strength, and compassion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing her.

Forever loved. Forever missed.