July 6, 1957 - Jan. 9, 2013

ELKHART — Gloria Dean House-Sykes, 55, of Elkhart and formerly of Vandalia, Mich., passed to her rest in the early hours of Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013, in her residence surrounded by her loving family.

She was born July 6, 1957, in Elkhart to Booker T. Harris and Annie Pearl House.

Her father preceded her in death, as did her grandparents, Thomas and Nehoma “Big Momma” (Jones) House.

She graduated from Cassopolis (Mich.) High School.

She married Robert Sykes May 27, 2011, in Elkhart, and loved him more than anyone can know. He survives.

Gloria worked at Dometic for two years and also worked for LADD and Dowagiac Nursing Home for many years.

She liked going to bingo, the casino and mainly keeping her family together, especially going to family gatherings. She loved braiding hair. She loved to give. As her family says, “If she had it, you had it.” She never said no. Gloria was always happy and kept a smile on her face. She loved everybody and she will always be in her family’s hearts. Gloria will be greatly missed by family and friends.

She leaves to mourn her passing her husband, Robert Sykes of Elkhart; her mother, Annie Pearl Garner of Elkhart; one daughter, Tera (John) Vaughn; four sons, CorDaniel House, Marcus House, Titus (Nicole) House and Daniel (Bobbie) House, all of Elkhart; 11 grandchildren; three sisters, Nancy Conner, Wanda (Tyrone) Friend and Pamela (Larry) Parker, all of Elkhart; one brother, Frank (Chastity) House of Sterling, Ill.; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Family and friends will gather from noon until the time of service at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2013, at Chain Lake Missionary Baptist Church, 16853 Chain Lake St., Cassopolis, with the Rev. Nichols Cossey officiating.

Mrs. House-Sykes will be laid to rest in Calvin Township Cemetery, Calvin Township.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals, Cassopolis.

Online condolences may be posted at www.wagnercares.com.

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