Gladys Ryals

Gladys Kay Stafford Ryals, age 84 of Harrisburg, NC entered peacefully into Heaven to be with the Lord at her home, on Tuesday, September 20, 2022. Her home, where she and her husband, have resided for 48 years.

Gladys was born December 18, 1937 in Mecklenburg County, to the late James Henry and Florence Catherine Lineburger Stafford. She was the youngest of 12 children, and was preceded in death by brothers, Ralph, Herman, Elmer and Paul; and sisters, Connie, Ruth, Myrtle, Brite, Lois and Elsie.

Gladys was a graduate of West Mecklenburg High School, class of 1956. She primarily worked as a key punch operator for over 24 years and became a working supervisor for Ceridian Corporation (a division of IBM).

Gladys loved the Lord Jesus Christ, and her family, and was a member of Pitts Baptist Church in Concord. She enjoyed singing in church choirs, teaching Sunday School, bible studies, reading, community services, crafts and yard sales.

Gladys is survived by her husband of 66 years, Eugene Franklin Ryals; son, Allan Ryals (Margaret) of Garland, TX; daughter, Carol Carrodus of Winston Salem, NC; son, Timothy Ryals of Blacksburg, SC; son, Stephen Ryals of Charlotte, NC; 11 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; a sister, Blanch Booth of Harrisburg; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank all of those who prayed for and encouraged our family, including Kiera Pierce, Carole Smiley, Susie Jellen, and Kay Allen. We also would like to thank Victoria Rodgers for her medical knowledge and care. With a very special thank you to James Ford for all of his help during the past 3 years.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, September 22 from 5 to 7 pm at Pitts Baptist Church. The funeral will be held on Friday, September 23 at 10 am at Pitts Baptist, with Rev. Scott Davis officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.