Born Gloria Elaine Watkins on September 30, 1936, the second child of Lemuel and Edna, "Glo" began a remarkable life defined by style, curiosity, and an irrepressible exuberance. From an early age, she carried herself with confidence and grace, qualities that would shape every chapter of her journey. After graduating from Lafayette High School, she attended the University of Buffalo, where she excelled in organizational management. Drawn to the wider world, Glo set her sights on travel, politics, and cross-cultural understanding. Her appointment to a secretarial position at the United Nations came as no surprise to those who knew her determination, intellect, and deep desire to engage meaningfully with global affairs while serving her country. Following several United Nations assignments abroad, she accepted a position at the Ministry of Health in Lagos, Nigeria. It was there that her beloved son, Vance, was born on January 14, 1965. In the final weeks of Gloria's pregnancy and during the first month of Vance's life, her mother, Edna, traveled to Nigeria to be by her side, offering steadfast love and support as Gloria embraced motherhood. Their time in Nigeria was soon marked by upheaval as civil war broke out, forcing the family to leave the country. Gloria's husband, a Colonel in the Nigerian Army, was later sent to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, for military training. During this period of transition and uncertainty, Gloria once again demonstrated her resilience and strength by securing a position at the University of Buffalo. There, she built a long and fulfilling career in the Psychology Department, where she remained until her retirement. In 1995 she married Dr. Scott Williams, a PhD in Mathematics at the University of Buffalo. Above all, Gloria will be remembered for her independence, courage, and vibrant spirit. She embraced life fully, navigated change with grace, and left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy lives on through her son, her family, and the many lives she touched through her work, her warmth, and her unwavering sense of purpose. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Beloved mother of Vance Aniebo; devoted sister of Donald E. Watkins, Marsha Thomas, and the late Joyce Curry; also survived by many nieces, nephews, family and friends throughout Buffalo, New York and Nigeria. Relatives and friends may visit Lombardo Funeral Home (Snyder Chapel), 4614 Main St., on Thursday, January 29 from 9:00-11:00AM. A prayer service will immediately follow. Interment Forest Lawn, Buffalo.