Gloria Elizabeth Lomax born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, peacefully transitioned into eternal life, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith, boundless love and selfless service. A lifelong woman of God, Gloria’s life was a reflection of grace, strength, and devotion to both her family and her community.

Gloria was reared in Harrisburg and raised in the New Hope Primitive Baptist Church, where her spiritual foundation was firmly rooted from an early age. She spent most of her life in Steelton, Pennsylvania, building a life centered on faith and family. In 1963, she moved to Columbus, Ohio with her children, where she experienced a profound spiritual transformation, receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit. In 1970, she returned to Harrisburg, carrying that spiritual fire with her and sharing it with her family and community, becoming a guiding light for many.

A dedicated and hardworking woman, Gloria was employed at the Mechanicsburg Navy Depot, where she faithfully served for 38 years before retiring at the age of 55. Her work ethic, strength, and commitment were evident in everything she did.

Gloria’s love knew no bounds. She opened her home and her heart as a foster parent to many children, eventually adopting some as her own. To her, family was not defined solely by blood, but by love, care, and commitment. She was truly the embodiment of what it means to nurture and uplift others.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph Lomax, Sr.; her cherished daughter, Wanda Rucker; her brothers, Scott A. White, Jr., John White, Sr., Joseph White and Paul White; her sisters, Betty Williams and Aldine Green and her stepchildren, Michael Lomax and Joe Lomax, Jr.

She leaves to cherish memories of her, a large and loving family. Her surviving children and family include, Reverend William T. and Wanda Rucker of Harrisburg, PA, Minister Stephen E. and Angela Rucker of Dallas, TX, Kenneth B. Rucker of Gambia, Africa, Cynthia “Cindy” J. Gammel of Harrisburg, PA, Edwin Turner, Nathan and Rebecca Turner, Jonathan Harmon, Sean Epps, Wayne Epps, William “Billy” Epps and Charles Epps; she also leaves her stepchild, Elvada Conant.

Gloria is also survived by her siblings, Jean Arp (Charles Arp), Suella Colbert (Larry Colbert), Florence Spencer, Nellie Bryant (Thomas Bryant), Carolyn Splawn (Charles Splawn), Marie Franklin, David White, Ricardo White (Elizabeth White), Mary Patterson (Norman Patterson), Patricia White and Nanette Swanson; along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.

Known affectionately as a pillar of strength and wisdom, Gloria served as a “mother of the church,” offering guidance, prayer and encouragement to all who crossed her path. Her faith was not only something she professed - it was something she lived daily. She was filled with the Holy Ghost and carried that spirit with humility and power, inspiring generations to walk in faith.

In her later years, Gloria found joy in life’s simple but meaningful pleasures. She loved crocheting, often creating pieces that reflected her care and creativity. She cherished time spent with her sisters and family, and she faithfully volunteered at the local food bank, always eager to serve others. Music was also close to her heart - she loved to sing, whether at church or surrounded by family, her voice carrying both joy and praise.

Gloria will be remembered as a woman of great faith and even greater love. She was the best mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend anyone could ask for. Her laughter was contagious, and she was known as one of the funniest among her family and friends, bringing light and joy into every room she entered.

Her life was a testament to sacrifice, compassion, and godly living. She poured her heart into caring for her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and countless others -whether related by blood or by love. Her legacy is one of kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion.

Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit lives on in all those she touched. Her love remains a guiding force, and her memory will forever be treasured.

“Well done, thy good and faithful servant.”

Her life will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026 in the Sanctuary of Word of Grace Ministries, 3814 N. Progress Avenue, Harrisburg with viewing and visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. and burial in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.