Obituary of Mother Gladys Washington-Hydelburg

The sun rose on the life of Mrs. Gladys S. Hydelburg on July 27, 1932 in Wortham, Texas when she was born to Wade Pitts and Ruby Jean James. The sixth of ten children, Gladys grew up with two sisters, Lillie and Ruby. As a child, she was loving, caring and protective. Growing up, Gladys had to wear clothes made from flour sacks which made her appreciate fashion as an adult. In 1951 Gladys was united in marriage with Booker T. Washington in Denton, TX. The marriage was later dissolved. She was the loving and devoted mother of ten children, Richard, Booker, Clarence, James, Raymond, Jessie, Michael, Curtis, Birdie and Velvina. She always taught her children to honor their elders, look out for each other and remember to treat people right. Her many grandchildren lovingly called her "Granny, Grandma or Grandma Gladys" and remember she was like a mother to most of them, but she was often quiet and meek. A woman of faith, Gladys was a member of Divine Love Christian Center. "God used her life to change the lives of many. She was a praying and very faithful woman." She was employed at Lowry Air Force Base in the position of housekeeper for many years. She was known for hard work and her guests loved her. In her free time, she enjoyed spending quality time with family and friends, shopping, traveling and praising the Lord. Her best friends were Australia and Mother Martha Carr. Her favorite expression was , "This too shall pass." Gladys always had a listening ear for anyone who needed it and open arms for all. "She was like a mother to many." To know her was to love her and she will be deeply missed. The sun set on the life of Mrs. Gladys Hydelburg on November 27, 2014 when the Lord called her home to eternal rest. She is preceded in death by her parents and son, Curtis Miller. Those left to cherish her memory include her sons, Richard (Linda) Pitts, Booker Washington, James Washington, Raymond Washington, all of Denver, CO, Clarence (Brenda) Pitts of Dallas, TX, Jessie (Mary) Washington of Grand Prairie, TX and Michael Washington of Centennial, CO; daughters, Birdie Washington and Velvina Washington, both of Denver, CO; sisters, Lillie Faye (Ben) Maturie and Ruby Nell Hennings, both of Denton, TX; 34 grandchildren, 70 great grandchildren; 13 great great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Rest in peace...Gladys