Gloria Jean Lipford Cressley, a beacon of kindness, faith, and thoughtfulness, was called home to the Lord on August 7, 2023. Born on February 26, 1945, in Marianna, Florida, Gloria was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her life was a testament to the power of love, family, and faith.
Gloria was the cherished daughter of the late Emmett Lipford and Elizabeth Walker Lipford. She was the beloved wife of the late William “Bill” Cressley, Jr., and the loving sister to the late William Lipford and Jimmy Lipford. Gloria is survived by her daughter, Kim Austin (Jody), and her caring brothers, Doise Lipford (Delores) and Mack Lipford. She is also survived by her loving sisters, Elizabeth Harrell and Becky Lipford.
Gloria was the proud grandmother of Jessica Owens (Scott), Justin Austin (Christina), and Courtney Austin. She was also the adored great-grandmother to eleven great-grandchildren, Reanna, Nadalyn, JJ, Kaleigh, Haley, Kaitlynn, Bailey, Taylor, Jacob, Harley, and Brantley. Each of them held a special place in her heart, and she in theirs.
A graduate of Marianna High School, Gloria was a dedicated and hardworking woman. She served the Florida State Hospital Property and Purchasing Department for 38 years before retiring. Her commitment to her work was a reflection of her character – diligent, reliable, and always willing to lend a helping hand.
Gloria’s interests were simple yet profound. She found joy in the everyday moments of life. She loved baking cakes, a talent she used to bring sweetness into the lives of those around her. She was a fixture at her grandchildren’s ballgames, cheering them on with a love that was as palpable as it was unwavering. Above all, Gloria loved her family and her church family dearly. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and shaping her into the woman we all knew and loved.
Gloria’s life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and family. She was a woman of grace and dignity, always putting others before herself. Her kindness was a beacon, illuminating the lives of those she touched. Her faith was unshakeable, a testament to her belief in the power of the Lord. And her thoughtfulness was a gift, a reminder of the importance of compassion and understanding.
Gloria Jean Lipford Cressley’s life was a blessing to all who knew her. She was a woman of faith, a loving family member, and a friend to all. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those she loved and those who loved her. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her life, remembering the love, joy, and faith she brought into our lives.
“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” Gloria, you have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith.
A Celebration of Gloria’s Life will be held in the chapel of McAlpin Funeral Home on Friday, August 11, 2023, beginning at 10:00 AM Central Time with Rev. Tim Hamblen and Rev. Juno Douglas officiating. Burial will follow in the Jimmy Lipford Fields of Memory Cemetery. Visitation for family and friends will be Thursday, August 10, 2023, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Central Time also in the chapel of McAlpin Funeral Home.
Condolences may be submitted at www.mcalpinfuneralhome.com
