Gloria J. Lawrence

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints. – Psalms 116:15



Gloria Jean Lawrence was born on May 13, 1932, in Cleveland, Ohio to the late Betty Grayson and Jay D. Smart. To this union Cecil Smart who is now deceased was also born.

She later married John Willis Lawrence; from this union Debra Rochelle Lawrence was born. Gloria played an active part in every aspect of her life.

Gloria was employed by Barton’s Knitting Mill, which was not at all her passion. By the mid 60s she became part owner of The House of Blues, where she employed the popular MC of the time as well as booking in “Chitlin-Circuit” entertainers for the city’s “in the life” Club goers of the era. She was also a member of a Social Club called the Mamborettes. She loved to dance the night away at the “Dawn Dances” in the Famous Majestic Hotel. She was also employed by The Hanna Lounge for 13 years and last but not least Art’s Seafood.

Gloria was affiliated with Artha Jon Modeling Studio. She had a great sense of style and loved to dress. She was an avid lover of fur and owned several coats, jackets, stoles and flings.

Gloria loved opening her home to her friends for get-together’s and parties. She took great pride in her home décor. She once hosted a political gathering at her home as part of the Campaign Drive to help to put Mayor Carl B. Stokes in office. She held Christmas Gatherings/Family Reunions for family and friends for more than 40 years.

Gloria was a faithful member of Lane Metropolitan CME Church for 40+ years, during that time she sang with the 8 O’clock Choir, was a member of the Missionary Society and also the Nonnie Bryant Women’s Ministry, always taking great pride in her Stewardship to the Church.

Gloria was a loving mother, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, cousin and friend. She was a fun-loving person with a ready wit and keen sense of humor. She departed this life to receive her heavenly reward on Saturday, August 8, 2020 at approximately 4:30 a.m. at her home.

Gloria leaves to cherish her memory her loving daughter, Debra Lawrence, one brother Le Roy Washington (Nadjra Washington), a special loved one David Lawrence who is her nephew/son who assisted her daily, several other nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and family.



For I reckon that the suffering of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. – Romans 8:18