Her Life's Story

Gladys D. Mays entered the earth on April 8,1936 in Madisonville, Texas to the proud parents of Moses and Artense Bridges. She departed the earth on August 13, 2025. Along her journey, she learned a great deal from her parents such as hard work, perseverance, and a belief in God and self.

We are celebrating the life of a strong woman. Gladys graduated from Marion Anderson High School in 1954. Gladys was helpful, outspoken, and loved the outdoors.

After high school, she attended and graduated from Franklin Beauty School. She worked as a hair stylist and provided manicures and pedicures for many satisfied customers.

She married Bobbie Joe Mays who affectionately called her "Freck" (short for "freckles"). And to this union, four children were born. Bobbie and Gladys moved to the South Acres subdivision in Houston, Texas where they reared their children. Family meant everything to her and often spoke of the importance of family taught by her parents. Gardening and antique shopping were some of her hobbies. A pillar in her neighborhood and always providing support and collecting funds for her neighbors that lost family members.

Gladys was preceded in death by her husband Bobbie Joe Mays, parents Moses and Artense Bridges, her sister Mozetta Box, and her brothers Horace Bridges, Rogers Bridges and Waldo Bridges.

She leaves to cherish her memories daughter Brenda (Bozie) and sons Joe (Gwen), Michael (Yvette), Bobby (Rhonda), granddaughters Nicole, Marie, and Alexis, grandsons Brandon, Trevior and Samuel, great-grandsons Camren and Brandon, Jr., great-granddaughters Kylie, Kinley, Mia, Angel, Braelynn and Jordyn, sister Rosie Bridges Brown and brother Moses Bridges, Jr. and a host of other relatives and friends.