In Loving Memory of Gloria Jean Thurman aka “Mommom”

Gloria Jean Thurman, affectionately known as “Mommom,” passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026, at the age of 85, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Born on December 22, 1940, in Dover, Ohio, to her late father and mother, Bud and Althea Schilling. Gloria later made her home in New Mexico, where she built a life grounded in family, connection, and showing up for the people she loved.

Gloria was many things to many people: a mother, a grandmother, a sister, an aunt, and a friend. She was the mother of her daughter, Nikki, and the proud grandmother of her only grandchild, Baylee, lovingly known to her as “Boop.” She also held close the memory of her daughter Kim and her stepson Michael, as well as her beloved pets Sam, Buddy, Becca, and Callie, all of whom preceded her in death.

She was the eldest daughter of a lively group of seven siblings: Phyllis, Carolynn, Bill, Larry, Rita, Tim, and Linda. And was preceded in death by Bill, Larry, and Rita. These were her best friends, the people she laughed with, argued with, and always came back to.

She spent 25 years working at Bunzel Papercraft before retiring, but her greatest impact was felt in everyday moments. Gloria rarely missed (if ever) a game, performance, or family gathering and was always ready with loving support.

An honorable and proud member of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority for 65 years, Gloria stayed active in her community through volunteer work, and lasting friendships and sisterhood.

Known for her wit, sass, and straight-shooting nature, Gloria had a sharp sense of humor and a big heart. She showed love through phone calls, shared meals, and simply being there with the people she loved. Her favorite advice says it all: “Don’t be ugly.” A reminder to always be kind

Mommom especially found joy in anything that kept her mind sharp. That included card games, dominos, bingo, puzzles, Scrabble, and watching game shows– especially Family Feud. She also loved gardening, sporting events, reading books, country music, and mostly Engelbert Humperdinck. Her famous homemade red velvet cake, pecan pies, and cheese balls were family favorites.

She often spoke fondly of her own grandmother, “Mommom,” whom she deeply loved. In her final days, she found peace in the thought of being reunited with her.

Gloria will be remembered for her loyalty, humor, and the way she showed up for others – especially as a devoted grandmother, “Mommom”.

A public celebration of Gloria’s life will be held on Monday, February 9, 2026, from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. at French’s Mortuary, 7121 Wyoming Blvd. Guests are encouraged to wear red. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to The Children’s Hospital or the Ronald McDonald House.

“Even in quiet moments, love has a way of making itself known.”