Gladys Marie Runnels was born on November 24, 1934, in Galveston, Texas. She was lovingly raised by her parents, the late B.B. and Jeffie Ross in County Line, Texas.
Gladys was united in marriage to the late James Runnels, with whom she shared many cherished years.
A woman of deep faith, Gladys was a devoted member of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Flint, Texas, where she faithfully served for over 20 years. After relocating to Jacksonville, Texas, she continued her spiritual journey at Greater New Zion Baptist Church, where she was an active member of the choir.
She received her early education through Douglas Independent School District and graduated from Winter Hill School. Gladys later attended Texas College in Tyler, Texas, where she pursued cosmetology and earned her cosmetology license. Her passion for serving others and her love for cooking led her to Twin Oaks Rehabilitation Center in Jacksonville, Texas, where she worked as a cook. During her time there, she was awarded a scholarship to attend Tyler Junior College in Tyler, Texas, where she obtained her certification in culinary arts. Following her achievement, she was promoted to a supervisory role.
Gladys later continued her career with Tyler Independent School District, serving as a cafeteria cook at John Tyler High School for over 20 years. Her dedication, warmth, and strong work ethic left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her biological parents, father Earnest King and mother Bobbie Small, her sister, Melvinnie Parker; daughter, Deborah Ann Muhammad and God-daughter Annie Marie Silmon.
Gladys leaves to cherish her loving memory one sibling, Linda King of San Antonio, Tx and her three children: Herman David Ross (B.J.) of Jacksonville, Texas; Jeffie M. Jessie (Adrian) of Nacogdoches, Texas; and Inez Beatrice Jones of Dallas, Texas.
She also leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren: Tyrone Boyd (Carol) of Jacksonville, Texas; Michael Ross of Jacksonville, Texas; DeMarcus Blanton of Grand Prairie, Texas; Willie Boyd (Amera) of Austin, Texas; Andrea Couvertier (Arcangel) of Katy, Texas; Charman Jimmerson (Alvin) of Red Oak, Texas; Charles Walker Jr. of Jacksonville, Texas; Adrian Jessie II of Houston, Texas; I’Larriett Jones (Darionne) of Red Oak, Texas; and Frank Jessie of La Marque, Texas.
She was further blessed with 17 great-grandchildren: Aniyah Walker, Jayden Jones, Tyrone Boyd Jr., Kerrington Brooks, Willie Boyd Jr., Brooklynne Walker, Adriana Couvertier, Chase Walker, Arian Couvertier, Jaida Jones, Jathan Jones, Arcangel Couvertier II, Kamden Jimmerson, Aspen Jessie and Kyng Walker. She was preceded in death by her great-grandchildren Michael Ross Jr. and Alexcea Jessie.
Gladys also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will continue to honor her memory.
“Well done, thy good and faithful servant…enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” – Matthew 25:23
Services are as follows:
Public Viewing
Saturday, April 4, 2026
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Greater New Zion Baptist Church
922 Crockett St.
Jacksonville, TX 75766
Funeral Service
Saturday, April 4, 2026
11:00 AM
Greater New Zion Baptist Church
922 Crockett St.
Jacksonville, TX 75766
Interment
Stonewall Cemetery
Douglass, Tx
