Gloria Ruth Wilder was born Gloria Desphy on August 2, 1932, in Philadelphia, Pa., to the late Alfredo and Ida Desphy. She was the eldest of their seven children; two of whom, preceded her in death-Ida Desphy (McCauley) and Charing Desphy (Garnett). Gloria was educated in the Archdiocesan School System of Philadelphia and graduated from Hallahan High School. Her journey in love began with her first marriage to the late James A. Fields, Sr. From that union she bore and raised seven children, one of whom preceded her in death- James Jr. She later married Benedict R. Wilder. In her golden years, she experienced a welcomed and unexpected companionship with the late James Jones who was affectionately known by family and friends as Mr. P.

Her heart, however, belonged to her family and she poured herself into her roles as Mom, Big Sister, Auntie, Grandma, Great-Grandma, Great-Great Grandma and dear friend, but Ran-Ran became the title-role that best encapsulated her spirit. Good food and loving conversations were her trademarks. She was an avid reader, Crossword Puzzle & Word Search enthusiast, and Casino Slot Queen… she was lucky, too. She loved to travel- the miles made no difference. Her best times were always spent with family and friends. The annual trips to Cape Cod and to The Poconos were most memorable. She would even accompany her sisters on their bowling tournament trips and smiled proudly, as they invited her to pose with them in their group picture. (knowing that she hadn't even picked up a bowling ball).

Ran-Ran could be short on patience, but always steady and constant with her love for family. Never short on affection, but quick to straighten you out and put you back on the right path when you needed it. Her Grandchildren affectionately tagged her with the title "Ruthless Ran"

At the same time, she managed to balance a long working career. Gloria held several Civil Service positions and subsequently retired as a Procurement Specialist from the U.S. Postal Service. Retirement was the perfect opportunity to travel more and enjoy her thriving family tree. Her travels led her to settle down with family in Charlotte, NC where she lived for several years and took on a part-time position with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System.

Longing for the closeness of her sisters, she relocated back to Philadelphia where they could have unlimited laughs, hugs, kisses, and trash talk over Bonanza, Pinochle and all the family games she was missing. This marked the beginning of the well-loved "Sisters Day". So well-loved that it was often crashed by all family members. They were made even more special on the few occasions when all of her siblings were in Philly at the same time, and her brothers would join in. Yes, family was everything to her.

She was a spiritual woman- a faithful servant of God. She served as an Usher for many years at her church Most Precious Blood, later renamed Saint Martin DePores. She was always determined to do her best to earn her wings by guiding, nurturing, advising and encouraging everyone whose life she touched. Her legacy of love, compassion, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Her memory is forever celebrated by her sisters; Sara Kirkland and Ella Combs; brothers Fareed Mumin and David Desphy, Sister-in-law Naima Mumin (Fareed), aunt; Julia Moore, Children; Yvonne "Bonnie" Keesee, Stephen Fields, Beverly Eichmuller, Gloria "Glor" Stewart, Michael Fields and Valerie Rand. Daughters-in-Law; Deborah Fields (James Jr.), Dr. Michelle Strongfields (Stephen), and Jacqueline "Jackie" Fields (Michael). Sons-in-Law; David Keesee Sr. (Yvonne), Anton "Big Tony" Stewart Sr. (Gloria) and Quinzelle "Q" Allen (Valerie); thirty Grandchildren, fifty-three Great-Grandchildren, four Great-Great-Grandchildren, and a multitude of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Rest well, Mom. You have earned your sweet peace in Heaven. You take our love with you.

Lovingly submitted,

The Family