Gloria Jean was born June 20, 1946 in Kilgore, Texas to the late A. J. Portley and Maurice Lemons.

She attended Booker T. Washington Public School in Kilgore, Texas.

Gloria Jean accepted Christ at an early age.

Gloria Jean met and married A. D. Palmer in 1972. She took the role on as being a mother and homemaker while her husband pursued a career as an engineer.

Her interests included family and reading. She devoted much of her time and energy as a caregiver to family members. Her charm and smile set enlightened any giving moment.

Gloria Jean is survived by her husband A. D. Palmer; brothers, John Smith and James Lemons (Edith); three daughters, Barbara Haggerty (Thomas), LaKeta Sanders, Leslie Portley; one son, Cedric Portley; seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She is also survived by a special aunt, Grace Williams; a special cousin, Barbara Ross and a host of other family and friends.