Gloria E. Howson (née Atzel) passed away on August 18, 2026, at the age of 96. Born on December 31, 1929, in Chicago, Illinois, Gloria spent most of her life there, also living in Las Vegas and Arizona before making her final home in Friendsville, Tennessee.

Gloria was a strong, independent woman who raised her children to be the same. She was always there when they needed her, offering love, strength, and unwavering support.

She leaves behind her six children, Valleen, Victoria, Richard, Colleen, Edward, and Mary, and more than 30 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Anthony Howson.

A devoted Christian, Gloria found a church community wherever she lived and dedicated herself to serving others through food pantries, food drives, and helping those less fortunate. She loved quilting, sewing, and crocheting, and had a special appreciation for veterans. That appreciation was personal, as her sons, brother, and other members of her family served in the military. She carried a special respect and gratitude for those who made sacrifices in service to others.

Gloria leaves behind a legacy of faith, strength, independence, compassion, and love that will live on through her family for generations.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gloria’s memory to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, supporting veterans, first responders, and their families.

She was deeply loved, will be greatly missed, and will live forever in the hearts of those who knew her.