Gloria Nell Kicklighter Coleman Finch

Gloria Nell Kicklighter Coleman Finch, age 92, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 5, 2024, in Athens. She was born on October 17, 1931 in the Mattloc Community of Glennville to Wilfred Benjamin and Juel Nell Griffin Kicklighter.  She had lived in Glennville most of her life until moving to Athens 5 years ago.

Gloria lived a remarkable life filled with numerous accomplishments and cherished memories. She graduated from Glennville High School where she excelled both academically and athletically. She participated in basketball and track teams while also being a proud member of the Beta Club.

At the tender age of 12, Gloria joined the Glennville Christian Church. Throughout her life, she served as a dedicated Sunday School Teacher for the youth.  She was a member of the Christian Women's Fellowship, serving as President, Study and Service Chair.  Her commitment to her faith continued as she selflessly served on the Board of Camp Kicklighter and held positions such as Secretary and Treasurer.

She was a beloved homemaker and had an illustrious career that spanned several domains. Gloria worked at the Dixie Gas Company, First Citizens Bank, Glennville Bank, Billy's Auto Service, and eventually retired after 20 years of dedicated service as a Financial Analyst with the Department of the Army Civil Service.

Gloria's multifaceted personality shone through various endeavors. Outside of her professional life and church commitments, she had an extraordinary talent for sewing. Her skills were recognized when she won the prestigious Georgia State Home Demonstration Dressy Dress Contest. Additionally, she displayed great aptitude in sports and taught her children how to water ski while also becoming an exceptional tennis player herself. Fishing brought her immense joy and tranquility.

Beyond her professional achievements and hobbies, Gloria was widely regarded for her warmth and generosity of spirit. Alongside Janis McCurdy, she co-owned the Hobby House—a ceramic shop—that brought joy to countless individuals.

Gloria is preceded in death by her parents and her husband, William Remer "Billy" Coleman whom she married on October 13, 1947, and had 3 children, Ron, Connie and Cathy.

After Billy died, Gloria married Jesse Finch, a former high school friend and sweetheart. During their 25 years of marriage, they enjoyed traveling.  Some of the places they visited were Hawaii, Austria, Switzerland and Australia, where Jesse had played in the 1958 Olympics.

Gloria is survived by her husband, Jesse Finch of Athens; her children: Ron (Ozella) Coleman of Bluff Dale, TX; Connie C. Ellsworth of Jacksonville, FL; and Cathy C. (Leroy) Moorehead of Watkinsville, GA; step-children: Jeannie (John) Reno of Atlanta, Jeff (Michelle) Finch of Athens, and Melissa Geer of Watkinsville; grandchildren: Jason (Sterrett) Coleman, Ryan Coleman (Kelly Kacprowski-Coleman), Brian Ellsworth, Michelle Belmont, Rachel Moorehead (Christian Cummings), step grandchildren, Frank Finch, Phoebee Finch, Wells Finch, Ava Geer, and Mercer Geer; great-grandchildren: Cash Ellsworth, Cole Ellsworth, John Kacprowski, Amelia Coleman, Harper Coleman, Eamonn Belmont, and Lucas Agrippa; many special cousins, nieces and nephews.  

The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 10, 2024, beginning at 10:00AM at the Glennville First Christian Church.  Funeral services will follow at 11:00am with Reverend Stuart Bland officiating.  Interment will be in the Glennville City Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to the Glennville First Christian Church for the Kicklighter Christian Camp

Glennville Funeral Home has the honor to serve the family of Mrs. Gloria Kicklighter Coleman Finch.