Gloria Lathon

Mrs. Gloria Lathon departed this earthly life for her home in Heaven on Wednesday, December 31, 2014. Age 76 years. She was born September 14, 1938 in Bartow, Georgia to Nathaniel Walker, Zenobia and Charles Birden.
Gloria was a member of Zion Missionary Baptist Church for over 50 years, currently under the leadership of Pastor Rodrick Smith. Being an active member of the ministry she was a member of the Senior Mission. Gloria was director of the Soup Kitchen at the Saginaw Neighborhood House. She was also a sewing instructor before her retirement. Gloria was a member of TOPS (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly). She loved to cook for her family and friends. Gloria loved her family and enjoyed the numerous gatherings at her home. Her wonderful presence will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.
She leaves to celebrate her legacy her devoted husband, Paster Lathon; two daughters, JoAnne (Artie) Short and Shirley (Gary) Branch-Haines; five sons, Johnnie (Dywana) Porter, Joseph Fleming Porter, Jeffery (Elaine) Moore, Orlando (Lisa) Lathon and Celester (Latondra) Lathon; two stepchildren, Stephanie and Rebecca Lathon; son-in-law, Tony Springer; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one brother, Charles Birden Jr.; one sister, Anganetta (Willie) Ervin; one aunt, Helen Brown; several nieces, nephews and cousins; one sister-in-law, Elizabeth Walker; many other relatives and friends.
Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Nathaniel Walker, Zenobia and Charles Birden, two daughters, Zenobia Haney and Christine Springer, one brother, Nathaniel Walker, one sister, Madeline Birden, uncle, McKinney Brown and aunt, Inez Sharp.
The family wishes to express special thanks to Elizabeth Walker,Tabitha Petty, Sue Lipsey, St. Mary's of Michigan Medical Center, Heartland Healthcare and her Pokeno family.
Visitation: Wednesday, January 7, 2015 - 2:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Paradise Funeral Chapel
3100 South Washington Avenue
Saginaw, Michigan 48601
(989)754-4826
Funeral Service: Thursday, January 8, 2015 - 11:00 a.m.
Paradise Funeral Chapel
3100 South Washington Avenue
Saginaw, Michigan 48601
(989)754-4826
Officiating: Pastor Emeritus Rev. Dr. Roosevelt Austin, Sr.
Interment: Forest Lawn Cemetery