Grace Joyner Gladin

Grace Joyner Gladin, a cherished member of the Chula, Georgia community and a devoted servant to her family and faith, passed away peacefully at her residence on April 4, 2026. Born on August 29, 1941, in Turner County, Georgia, she lived a life marked by dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment to those she loved.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at Waterloo Baptist Church with Dr. Jeff Pangle officiating. Entombment will follow at Tift Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 9:30 to 10:30 A.M. at the church before the service.

Nephews will serve as pallbearers.

Grace graduated from Irwin County High School, laying the foundation for a lifetime of service and leadership. She pursued a notable career as Bank President Secretary, retiring with honor from First Community Bank of Tifton after forty years. Her professional journey reflected her strong work ethic and her ability to inspire and support those around her.

Among her proudest accomplishments was her faithful membership at Waterloo Baptist Church, where she found spiritual nourishment and community fellowship. Her devotion to her church mirrored her deep love for her family and friends, where she was known not only as a mentor but also as a great cook with a generous heart. She had a special fondness for gardening, enjoying time spent tending to her yards and nurturing vibrant flowers.

Grace’s love extended beyond her family to the broader “Farmers Bank family,” and she was known for her warmth and genuine care for others. Her influence and affection touched many lives, making her presence in any room a blessing.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Julian Harris Gladin, who stood by her side through life’s journeys. She was the proud mother of her son, Greg Gladin, who carried forward her legacy of love and integrity. Grace’s family bonds also included her brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Wanda Joyner; her sister, Joyce Moore; and her sisters-in-law, Nancy Joyner, Katrina Joyner, Elaine Welch, and Vivian Young. She held dear her nieces, Cora Lee Long and Lindsey Layton, whom she lovingly embraced as grandchildren.

Grace was preceded in death by her parents, Noel Joyner and Mazie Lee Dean Joyner, her siblings Eleace Layton, Dorothy and Bobbie Joe McCurdy, Ann and Fred Turner, Lamar “Cooter” Joyner, and Noel “Bo” Joyner, as well as her brothers-in-law Larry Moore, Tommy Young, and Vernon Gladin.

Grace Joyner Gladin’s life was a testament to compassion, hard work, and faith. Her kindness, mentorship, and joyful spirit will remain in the hearts of her family, friends, and community for years to come. She will be remembered with great respect and affection by all who had the honor of knowing her.

Flowers accepted or donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 2402 Tift Avenue N Suite 102, Tifton, Ga. 31794.

Albritton Funeral Directors is in charge of the arrangements.