January 24, 1928 began as another cold winter day on the plains of Lincoln County, Oklahoma but at the home of Gifford and Edna Ware Hale it was a joyous occasion with the birth of their first child, Gladys Jewel. Over the years the family would grow with the addition of four more children. At the age of eight, Gladys and her family moved to Jerusalem, Arkansas. Those years of growing up on the family farm allowed her to blossom into a very talented and hard working young lady. In time she was married to her first husband, John McCoy, Sr. and their home was blessed with five children. During their years together, Gladys assisted John with their saw mill and well digging operations. After his death, she was married to Larry Riley and they moved from Arkansas to California to make their home. A very skilled seamstress, Gladys began a career of sewing for the public. In her spare time she enjoyed quilting, and making porcelain dolls. Her family estimates that over the years she has made over 450 quilts. Gladys was also an excellent cook and the family always looked forward to a meal that featured her old fashion biscuits and gravy or her awesome chicken and dumplings. With a bubbly and outgoing personality, Gladys never met a stranger. She loved kidding around and joking with her family and friends. One remembrance is when she was at a flea market and found an item she wanted but didn't have the money. Her son-in-law, Lee loaned her the money….soon he received a little jug filled with 320 pennies and a note saying "Paying my debit". She also enjoyed joking with her grandchildren. When any of they would leaves and wish her a good day, she would reply "Don't tell me what kind of day to have". Gladys has left a legacy of beautiful memories for her family and friends to cherish in the coming months and years. At Weaverville, CA, Sunday, June 3, 2012, at the age of 84, Gladys Jewell McCoy Riley left her earthly home and entered eternity. Her beautiful smile, twinkling eyes and sweet spirit will remain with us forever. Family members who mourn Gladys's passing are: Her sons: John McCoy & wife Mindy of Mt. Ida, Arkansas Tony McCoy & wife Jody Curt Riley & wife Nadine Hank Riley all of Lewiston, CA Her daughter: Brenda Jones & husband Lee of Kirkland, WA One brother: Robert Hale of Glenwood, Arkansas 14 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren Gladys was preceded in death by her Parents: Gilford & Edna Hale; Husband, John McCoy, Sr.; Sisters, Mabellena Matthews and Joyce Marie Hale Nickleson; Brother, Leonard Hale; Son & Daughter-in-law, Vernon & Gean McCoy; Son, Dale McCoy; Sister-in-law, Nell Hale.