GLORIA PETERSON

Gloria Patricia Gary-Peterson aka Pumpkin was born to Bertha Merritt and Richard Jackson in Harlem, New York on December 19, 1957. She graduated from George Washington High School in 1975. Early on she had a talent for music, she became a fluid piano player, studying classical music. After graduating, she went on to work for Bell Telephone Company. Eight years later she had an interest in becoming a hair stylist. She attended Washington Heights Beauty School where she received a degree in Cosmetology. She began working as hairstylistst and makeup artist from her home.

Gloria was known for her contagious laugh, singing, dancing and cooking. If she didn’t want you in her house, she would stomp her feet and slam the doors alerting you to leave. She didn’t have to speak a word, you would know.

Gloria was blessed with a large and adoring family. She married her best friend, Anthony Peterson. She was a beautiful, kind loving and supporting woman that enjoyed life and everyone around her. She will be missed by her loved ones.

On Monday, October 31, 2022 Gloria Gary-Peterson passed away. She is survived by her mother Bertha Merritt; her husband, Anthony Peterson; four children, Rahsheim Gary; stepson, Anthony Mack and 3 others; eight grandchildren, Shakir Gary, Yasmeen Gary, Rakeim Gary, Tahsheim Gary, Nykia Gary-Hill, Nydia Gary-Hill, Nasir Gary-Hill, and Nylah Gary-Hill;  great grandchildren, Sydnei Gary and Saniyah Gary; three sisters, Joanne Garry-Elliott, Michelle Garry, Deborah Carr Jackson; one brother, Frank Garry; four aunts, Georgia Merritt, Anita William, Louvida Lewis, Louise Murray; one uncle, Richard William; and a host of cousins and friends.

Gloria is now with her siblings the late Debbie Garry, Richard Garry and Kimberly Garry; her grandfather, Frank J. Merritt; grandmother, Louise Merritt and aunt, Francis Merritt.

Rest In Eternal Peace.