God, in his infinite wisdom and perfect timing, called His faithful servant, Gloria Dean Curry, from labor to reward on December 11, 2025. A life beautifully lived, guided by purpose, and rooted in love came to a peaceful close. Having fought a good fight and finished her course, Gloria now rests peacefully in the presence of the Lord.

July 18, 1941, marked the beginning of Gloria’s earthly walk. Born unto the late Georgia Lee Curry and Leonard Curry in Navasota, TX, Gloria was the second to youngest of 5 children. In her childhood years, they relocated to Galveston, TX, where she eventually grew up to become an honorary member of the Central High School Bearcats, class of 1959. Although she was not the oldest, Gloria gracefully took on the role of the matriarch of her family. With a smile that drew you in and a love that never ran cold, she touched countless lives.

Gloria Dean, affectionately known as “Glory-Dean”, was known for her unwavering love for her children, grandchildren, and family. Her life also reflected a God-given love for her community, shown in both word and deed. She loved to go crabbing and would gather the kids from the neighborhood to join as well. She truly believed “it takes a village to raise a child” and would always be first to create that village for others. In a moment remembered by many, she once gathered all of the neighborhood kids and arranged for a bus to transport everyone to go ice skating at The Galleria in Houston, TX. So passionate in her commitment to create a more enjoyable lifestyle for the children around her, Gloria had a swing-set assembled and set up in her backyard in Cedar Terrace for all the neighborhood children to enjoy. Though she was key in assuring the children had a good time, she was no stranger to discipline either. Parents felt at ease knowing that Ms. Gloria was going to keep them safe, fed, and entertained, but she spared no rods when they got out of line! Gloria was also known for her fearless heart and guiding wisdom. Any Galveston native, to this day, will tell you confidently and with absolute certainty, that Gloria’s gumbo was the best on the island. So good, in fact, that she was employed by the highly regarded Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant as the only cook allowed to make the gumbo to serve to customers. She also worked for Busy Bee’s cab service for many years where she rose through the ranks starting as a dispatcher and ended up being the first black female cab owner in Galveston. “The Lady Cab Driver”, is what her new title had become. She was also employed at Texas A & M, G.I.S.D., and U.T.M.B. in the cafeteria. In later years, she also worked with her dear friend Darlene Hudson and was a contributing factor in helping startup Jamaica Beach’s first laundromat, Soaps Linen. Wearing all these hats, Gloria still managed to be that steadfast rock for her children and grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her cherished parents, Leonard and Georgia Lee Curry; her treasured brother, Robert Winters (Roosevelt); her well-loved sisters Dorothy Cade (Roy), and Erma Turner aka Mickey (Clarence Sr.); her dear nephew Clarence Turner; her precious granddaughter, Tomaya Henderson, and a host of other beloved family members who entered eternal rest before her.

She is survived and cherished by those who hold her dear and continues her legacy: Son, Darnell Curry (Andrea); Daughters, Debra Curry and Cathy Curry; Bonus Daughters, Terry Alexander, and Lillian McGrew. Sister, Mrs. Maxine Hightower. Sister-in-Law, Ester Washington. Treasured Nephew: Joe Lee Robbins. Grandchildren: Deneshia Grimes, Dylin Curry (Victoria), William Curry (Joy), Avery Curry (Kimberly), Jameisha Lee, and Brandi Henderson. Great-Grandchildren: Devoted Great-Granddaughter Kylin Curry, Deddrick Jr., Dyson, Devin, Tamerany, Avery Jr., Adrian, Kennedi, Aubrey, Demond, Krislyn, Briana, Adrianna, Gavin, Chandler, Kyrin, Kaleah, and Tavares Jr. Great-Great Grandaughter: Brooklyn. Special friends: Jimmy Lawrence, Darlene Hudson, Dorothy Keiths, Pat Tolliver, and Mable Brazier. Gloria is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family all of whom she held dear and loved deeply.

She was a pillar of her neighborhood, watchful, protective, and caring; a chef whose meals warmed many hearts; a source of laughter; and a woman whose strength was known and respected by all. Among her family, she was full of life, known for her signature dance and unforgettable backyard parties that kept the family bond strong and vibrant. While we mourn your passing, we give thanks for the time God allowed us to share with you. Your love and memory will walk with us always on our journey through life.

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