Gladys French

On August 15, 2010 Gladys Marie Pickens French joined the heavenly host of her Father God.\ \ Gladys was born on October 21, 1924 to Ira and Ethel Pickens in Tocopola, MS. Gladys graduated from the high school that generated more teachers than any other high school in Mississippi at the time, Tocopola High School. Her talent was exhibited by her graduation at the age of 15. \ \ Gladys began her College education at Mississippi State College for Women, then moved to Blue Mountain College and completed her education at what is now the University of Mississippi.\ \ Gladys began her teaching career in Guntown, MS and then moved on to teach at Byram High School. It was here that she met the love of her life, James. Gladys then gave up teaching to become the Bookkeeper and Secretary for the Superintendent of Hinds County Schools.\ \ On October 19, 1947 Gladys and James married and as one person said, they were a very special couple.\ \ Always active in church Gladys became the church secretary and bookkeeper for West Park United Methodist Church where she served for 25 years. She then became the bookkeeper and secretary for First United Methodist Church in Clinton, MS. After serving for 20 years at First Methodist, Gladys finally retired and started enjoying life at home.\ \ An artist at heart Gladys was known for her quilts, needle point and cross stitching. A lifelong lover of all things floral, she especially loved roses and Magnolia blossoms.\ \ Upon retirement James and Gladys moved to Byram, MS and joined Springridge United Methodist Church where she especially loved the fellowship, joy and comfort provided by the church family.\ \ Gladys was preceded in death by her father and mother, her daughter Mary Ethel, and seven brothers and sisters.\ \ Gladys is survived by her husband James, her sister Doris Thomas and three sons; James (Susan), Thomas (Pam) and William (Lisa). Survivors include 6 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.\ \ Visitation will be held at Chancellor Funeral Home in Byram on Tuesday, August 17, 2010 from 5:00pm until 7:00pm. A Memorial Service will be held at Chancellor Funeral Home on Wednesday, August 18, 2010 at 10:00am with interment to follow at Lakewood Memorial Park.\ \