Gladys Piner

Gladys Howard Piner, a beacon of love and generosity, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2024, at the age of 101 in Newport, North Carolina. Born on October 21, 1922, in Brooklyn, New York, Gladys lived a life marked by selflessness and devotion to her family and community.

Gladys, known affectionately to her friends and family as a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, was the heart of her family. She was a source of boundless love and support to her children Sharon P. Quinn, Charles H. Piner III (Lynda Johnson), Watts C. Piner (married to Faye), and Terry P. Fetzer (married to Brian), who will forever cherish her memory.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren Jackie Garner (Greg), Chuck Quinn (Beth), Josh Quinn (Bonnie), Chris Piner, Michael Piner, Jeff Johnson (Tracie), Lori Johnson, Billy Piner (Alicia), April Piner-Yi (Ricky), Sammy Piner Jr., Tara P. Dalton, Falcon Piner (Courtney), Heather Davis (Kerry), and Brian A. Fetzer (Alana), as well as through her 24 great-grandchildren who brought her immeasurable joy.

Gladys was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles H. Piner Jr., her daughter Manie P. Adams, and her son Sammy W. Piner. She faced these losses with remarkable strength and grace, always finding comfort in the love of her extensive family.

Throughout her life, Gladys was an epitome of the nurturing spirit, dedicating herself to her role as a loving wife and mother. She was admired for her unwavering dedication to her family and her ability to make each member feel cherished and important. Her home was a haven of warmth and kindness, where everyone was welcome and love was abundant.

Gladys's character was the embodiment of the well-known quote by Mother Teresa, "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." This philosophy was reflected in every aspect of her life, from the meals she prepared with care to the wise counsel she offered to those in need. Her generosity extended beyond her family as she was actively involved in her community, touching the lives of many through her kindness and compassion.

Her presence was a gift to all who knew her, and she will be remembered as a woman who lived her life with purpose and joy. Gladys's selfless nature was evident in the way she prioritized the happiness and well-being of her family above all else. She was a guiding light, and her influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.

As we bid farewell to Gladys, we celebrate a life well-lived, a journey filled with love and laughter, and a legacy of family unity that will stand as a testament to her remarkable spirit. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her and be touched by her generosity.

Gladys Howard Piner's life is a reminder that the simplest acts of love are often the most profound. We take solace in knowing that her kindness has made the world a better place, and her memory will continue to inspire us to live with the same compassion and selflessness that she demonstrated every day.

A service will be held to honor the incredible life of Gladys Howard Piner on Friday August 2 at Noe Brooks Funeral Home Morehead City at 2:00 PM. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service. Her unwavering love and the memories shared will forever be a cherished part of our lives. We celebrate her remarkable century of life, love, and the unbreakable bonds she nurtured. Though she has left this world, her light remains, guiding us with the same love that she so freely gave.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noebrooks.net.

Arrangements by Noe-Brooks Funeral Home, Morehead City, NC.