Gladys McGee

In Loving Memory of Gladys McGee

Gladys McGee, a remarkable woman of faith, learning, and love, peacefully entered the gates of Heaven on April 22, 2024, at the age of 87. Born to Clyde Manford Hanson and Harriet McCarley Hanson on February 24, 1937, Gladys was surrounded in her final moments by the love of her family and the memories of a life well-lived. She now joins her beloved parents, her 13 siblings, and her husbands, Tommy Wilborn and Travis McGee, in eternal rest.

Gladys' journey through life was marked by resilience, determination, and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Despite facing challenges that forced her to leave high school prematurely to care for her ailing father, Gladys remained undeterred. Fueled by a love for her family and a passion for learning, she embarked on a lifelong pursuit of education. She devoured books, honed her typewriting skills, and eventually pursued higher education as a non-traditional student. In 1990, she proudly earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from Texas A&I University, followed by a Master of Arts in English in 1992.

Her dedication to education extended beyond her own pursuits. Gladys served as a full-time professor at Texas A&I, imparting knowledge and wisdom to countless students. Her impact was profound, and she rose through the ranks, eventually serving as the Executive Director of College I, which later became University College, until her retirement in 2005. Her commitment to academic excellence touched the lives of many and left an indelible mark on the institution she served.

However, Gladys' true calling lay in her unwavering faith and devotion to her family. A devoted member of First Baptist Church in Kingsville, she served tirelessly in various roles and shared her love for God with all she encountered. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, instilled in her at a young age by her mother, and it guided her every action and decision.

Gladys was also a loving mother to her son, Jimmy, and a cherished grandmother to her seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Known affectionately as "Gma," she showered her family with boundless love, care, and affection. Her home was always open, filled with laughter, and stocked with their favorite snacks. Whether caring for her own kin or extending a helping hand to others in need, Gladys' nurturing spirit touched the lives of all who knew her.

Gladys leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and grace that will forever inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. She is survived by her devoted son, James (Liz) Wilborn of Chillicothe, her lifelong friend, Joyce (Henry) Bynum, her seven grandchildren, Jennifer (Rogelio) Verdugo, Suzanne Wilborn, Dianne (James) Gonzales, Cody Wilborn, Christina (Tyler) Cargile, Cole Wilborn and Emma Wilborn. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Sienna, Ezra and Lucia Verdugo, Brock Lyle and Evelyn and Jonah Gonzales. Though she may be gone from our sight, her memory will continue to shine brightly in our hearts.

A visitation will be held at First Baptist Church in Kingsville, Texas on May 4, 2024, beginning at 9:00 AM, with a celebration of Gladys' life at 11:00 AM. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Turcotte-Piper Mortuary in Kingsville, Texas.

As we bid farewell to our beloved “Gma”, we take comfort in the knowledge that she is now at peace, surrounded by the eternal love of her Heavenly Father. Rest well, dear “Gma”, until we meet again in the glorious presence of God. Amen.