Gloria Welch

Gloria Jean (Simms) Welch Born Sept. 27, 1955; Retired from University of Notre Dame, as a security officer. Also work for Securitas Security Company where she earned the designation of professional Security Officer.  A Certificate of outstanding Service: Heroes performance -in quick response in emergency situations was also given to her. She Worked for AM General Corp. as the person who helped assembly the first Hummer Trucks. Received certificate in recognition of outstanding sales achievement from South Bend Camp Fire girls council Inc. Sold 21 boxes of Candy April 6, 1968.  Gloria had a big heart and made it her mission to be charitable contributor to the children at St. Jude Children Hospital to help with research among other organizations. She loved cooking, gardening, writing, reading her bible plus studying the words of the Lord. She was good at Interior decorating and playing softball. Her Softball talents caused her to receive a trophy for pitching player of the year in 1992.

 “What I have did in my lifetime here on earth- I always gave my best and beyond my best.” I Learned in life- when you make one step, God will make the other steps for you. Just like the lord” words in footprints. Love always. “My God be with you always & Doing ok with the help of the Lord” Gloria Jean Welch-

She survives by Son Carlton Earl Thomas Jr. Grand Daughters: Rashida Wilder (Darnell, &Makai) Safiya Thomas (Jayden, Lyric, Samara & Ariyah) of Indianapolis, IN.  Jamila Thomas (Alaya, Charlee, Cherish, Cree and Cai) all of Indianapolis, In, Jelani Thomas (Leylani, Nakoa, Azuri, Dary and Jakcu) Tashauna Thomas (Jayden White) of South Bend; Sierra Thomas of Louisiana, Sacario Thomas and Samya Thomas of South Bend, IN    

Grandsons: Elijah Thomas of Austin, TX, Tyshawn Thomas (Kai’mhani, K’moree, Ky’Mel and Ky’Mier) all of Indianapolis. Stevie Thomas Jr. (Shanelle Denise) of South Bend, God Daughter: Cherylria Stalling, Best friend Connie Hesiban (love always). Siblings: Katherine Hughley, Tommie Simms and John L. Simms. Nephews Churckery (Idella) Hughley of South Bend, In and Clinton (Freda) Hughley of Columbus, Ohio; Niece Coaretta Hughley of South Bend, In. A good friend Ricky Atkins    

She was preceded in death by her parents: Archie and Elizabeth Simms, James Simms and Jimmy Williams, son: Steve Thomas, Brothers: Archie (Joe) Simms Jr. and Charlie Simms. A 2pm Memorial Service in her honor will take place on September 26, 2026 at Laymen Chapel CME church 303 S. Kenmore St. South Bend, In Arrangements have been entrusted to www.boydandsonfuneralhome.com   where condolence may be shared. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made directly to her oldest son Carlton Earl Thomas Jr.

Memorial Service Saturday Sept 26, 2026

2PM Laymen Chapel CME 303 Kenmore St. 

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