Mary Gloria Swann

Mary Gloria Swann, known to most as “Gloria,” was a devoted mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend. On February 22, 2026, Gloria passed away peacefully in Silver Spring, Maryland, at the age of 82, surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 22, 1943, in Faulkner, Maryland, Gloria lived a life that was a beautiful tapestry of love, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to her family.

Gloria was educated in the Charles County public school system. From there, Gloria worked several jobs to include customer service, hospitality at the Heidelberg Motel, and working as a cook at the Town’n Country Restaurant and Captain Billy’s Crab House, where she worked for over 35 years. Gloria was a tireless worker who worked sun-up to sun-down to provide for her family. Gloria was the epitome of perseverance, rarely calling out of work regardless of her fatigue, a testament to her strong work ethic and commitment.

Outside of her professional life, you would find Gloria sitting in her favorite spot on the couch watching Walker Texas Ranger, Wheel of Fortune, Knight Rider, or football. She did this while enjoying her favorite meal of fried pork chops, mashed potatoes and gravy, along with an ice-cold Mountain Dew. Gloria was an avid bingo player and loved playing cards, a pastime that brought her great joy and extra cash. She enjoyed listening and dancing to Motown R&B. Subsequently, these activities were not just hobbies for her; they were opportunities to connect and share quality time and laughter with family and friends.

She had a personality that was both loving and self-sacrificing; she would give her last dime to anyone in need, demonstrating her generous spirit time and again. That love and sacrifice flowed over to her six children and the grandchildren that adored her. Gloria’s life was a testament of love and dedication. She will be remembered not only for her beautiful smile, but for her selfless acts, loving her family and friends, and her mean left hook. Her spirit endures in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her. Gloria’s family and friends will carry forward her legacy, cherishing the indelible impact she made on their lives.

Gloria is survived by her beloved children: Linda, Joan (Jermaine), Paul, Jackie, and Pamela, as well as her bonus children, Jeremiah, Charlene, and Cynthia. She cherished her role as a grandmother to Necka, Syreeta, Temeca, Perika, Shontae, Tyrone, Janet, Crystal, Trina, Anthony, Erica, Tony, Shirley, Brittany, Mary, and Isaiah, a remarkable legacy of love that will continue through her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.

She is also remembered by her siblings: Allen (Pearl), Charles, John, Lola, and Sheila, who carry forward the memories of their dear sister. Gloria's special friendships with Jean Farmer, Mary Joe, Ronnie Ross, Christopher Reynolds, Rodney Daniels, Wayne Dorsey, David Perkins, Webster Parran, Gloria Cole, and many others enriched her life with love and laughter that will never be forgotten.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Leo Wilferd Hicks and Mary Louise Lancaster; her beloved son James and daughter-in-law Janice Lancaster; and grandsons James "Mickey” Lancaster and Travis Dorsey. Her siblings Joyce, Alice (Eddie), Leroy, Hilda (Bayboy), Leo, Earl, Maurice, Arthur, Robert, and Walter. Special friends Grace Queen, Jane Watson, Leroy Fenwick, Paul Swann, and Reggie Ross.

For those who wish to offer support to the family through a monetary contribution, donations may be made using the link provided below. Your kindness, generosity, and continued prayers are deeply appreciated during this time.