/fit-in/200x300/filters:fill(white)/prod/1312/407896/4SP9THsDwpomj67J7114753731282280766.jpg)
Obituary For Gladys Fields
The earthly phase of a remarkable life ended with the passing of Gladys Antoinette “Toni” Westray Fields at her Benbow Park residence in Greensboro on March 3, 2024.
She was born at home in our nation’s capital on August 17, 1927, the last of seven children of William Herbert and Mabel Gaskins Westray. During Toni’s 96 years she enjoyed the golden age of radio, endured World War II, graduated from Virginia State College, married her college sweetheart, taught in New York City public schools, raised three children, led a Girl Scout troop, earned a master’s degree, taught at NC A&T State University, amassed one of the country’s largest collections of Black dolls, became a quilter and crafter, practiced environmentalism as a recycler and composter, witnessed man on the moon and a Black man as president, joined Facebook and even taught computer use to fellow seniors at her local library.
Toni’s husband, Richard L. Fields, Ed. D, predeceased her in 2009. She is survived by her children, Richard Alan Fields Sr., M.D./Sylvia Crisp Fields; Mark Lewis Fields, M.D., and Tracy Antoinette Fields, M. Comm; two grandchildren, Kirstyn Elanete Fields Martin/Harold Lee Martin Jr., and Richard Alan Fields Jr./Kristin Major Fields; five great grandchildren: Harold Lee Martin III, Serena Janelle Martin, Richard Samuel Fields, Zoe Sarai Fields, Farrah Sarai Fields; numerous loving nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends.
A memorial service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 14, at Perry J. Brown Funeral Home, 909 E. Market St., Greensboro.
In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in memory of ‘Mrs. Gladys Westray Fields’ to the Dementia Society of America, P.O. Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901, or www.DementiaSociety.org/donate. The family also encourages support for Meals on Wheels; please send checks to Senior Resources of Guilford, 1401 Benjamin Pkwy., Greensboro NC 27408; note MOW in memory of Gladys W. Fields on the subject line.
Cards and letters may be sent to 2213 New Castle Road, Greensboro, NC, 27406.
Photos & Video
Condolences & Tributes
Add A Condolence
I can't express my gratitude to you and your family throughout my childhood. Your home gave me a resting place. I tell my children about camping at Prince Edward State Park and the adventures we had on the road. Everything you did was loving and classy and an example to everyone you met. Thank you, Kathy Anderson Lee
I'll miss you Mrs Field's you were a second grandmother to me. Always loved coming to visit you when I was little ❤️ 💕. Love you
The Benbow Park Community imports that Mrs. Gladys Fields was unique among many unique persons that took up residence in "The Park", in the early 1960's. She attained many academic and social achievements. Arguably, her greatest achievements were in how she constructed her supported her family, and her community. She had a way of talking to children that was affirming, motivating and nurturing. That spirit of "Endeavo0r to Excellence" was who she was and who she is. We will miss her eventhough her spirit lives in many of us that grew up with her. May God Bless You Sister Fields
In my quiet moments of reflection, I often find myself revisiting memories of Mrs Gladys, someone who transcended the label of mere client to become a cherished presence in my life. Our impact stretched far beyond the confines of our professional relationship, leaving an indelible mark on my heart. Despite the passage of time, the memory continues to evoke a sense of warmth and gratitude within me. The moments we shared will always remain etched in my mind, always reminded of the memories we shared. I am filled with gratitude for having known such a remarkable soul, and I carry those memories with me as a source of inspiration and strength. I thank you for allowing me to be apart of your life. Love always Terry
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
