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Obituary For Mrs. Mary Gladys Laughlin
Mrs. Mary Gladys Green Laughlin, 96, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a rich legacy of love, faith, and education. Born and raised in Randolph County, Gladys was the beloved daughter of the late Cornelius Neil Green and Addie Ferree Green. She was also preceded in death by one son, Clarence Laughlin.
A proud alumna of North Carolina A&T State University, she earned her degree in Education and was only a few credits shy of her Master’s degree—a testament to her lifelong dedication to learning.
She was united in marriage to the late Cicero C. Laughlin, and together they raised two children.
Gladys spent her life sharing that passion with others. Her teaching career began at a private Black boarding school in Louisiana and later continued in North Carolina, where she taught third grade at Leonard Street School and eventually retired from Oak View Elementary.
Gladys’s devotion to her students was matched only by her deep and abiding love for God. She was the spiritual cornerstone of her family and the oldest living member across three family lineages—the Ferrees, the Greens, and the Laughlins.
Gladys will be remembered for her sharp mind, her nurturing spirit, and her steadfast faith. Her impact will live on in the hearts and minds of all those she taught, loved and inspired.
She is survived by one daughter, Bettye (William) Laughlin Alston; she was a cherished grandmother to Tiffany (Bob) Alston Crumley and Courtney Alston Wilson; great-grandmother to Khalil (Christina) Latimer and Logan Wilson; and great-great-grandmother to Simi and Lennox Latimer ; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who will continue to carry her legacy forward.
Funeral service will be held Saturday, July 12, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Bethel United Methodist Church, 3229 Old Glenola Road. Interment will follow at Liberty Grove Community Cemetery, Trinity, NC. The family will receive friends at the church from 10:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.
Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.
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Judith Mills sent Small Garden Dish for Mrs. Mary Gladys Laughlin - July 11, 2025
To Ms. Gladys Laughlin Family--Although it's difficult today to see beyond sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow. May God continue to hold you in the palm of His hand, and give you strength in the days ahead. Please accept our sincere condolences.... We hope your memories of Ms. Gladys will be of some comfort. The Laughlin and Green family members are in our prayers. Remember in God's Holy Word that weeping may endure for a night but joy cometh in the morning. . I was so fond of Ms. Gladys, she would always give me a kind motherly love hug. Until we meet again at Jesus feet. Peace and love be with you from Vance (former Funeral Director at Hazlip), Mittie, Thomas, Bryson McCoy of Wadesboro, NC
My Mom, sister and myself met Mrs. Gladys at a meeting at our Church, GOD loves small Churches. She and Willie Mae asked my Mom about helping them with bulletins for their Churches, she was happy to help and thought Mrs. Gladys was a precious lady who she loved. I know they have all passed and are waiting on us and looking forward to JESUS return. Your family will be in my prayers.
Sorry for your loss
Another angle has gained her wings. What a wonderful person. Met her over 60 years ago and have always had the greatest amount of love and respect for her. She always knew who she was and whose she was, and it always showed in all she did and said. She will be missed but always remembered. God Bless you all the family and friends. May we keep her close in out hearts and minds.
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Gladys was one of a kind ...She was precious to me ..sending prayers for the family ...She was a bright light ...with sympathy...she will be missed...Her favorite mail lady
To her family and friends: dear Gladys was such a lovely, faith-filled person. May God bless you with comfort and peace as you find joy in sweet memories and you celebrate her life. With heartfelt prayers and loving gratitude for her, Pastor Sandy
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
