Gladys L. Hensley

Gladys L. Hensley, a beloved matriarch, gently departed this world on November 1, 2025, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family. Born on August 8, 1930, in Junction City, Kentucky, Gladys lived a vibrant life filled with cherished moments, laughter, and kindness.

Gladys dedicated 30 years of her working life as a candy maker for Esther Price Candy, where her sweet creations brought joy to many. Beyond her professional achievements, she was a passionate volunteer with the city of Kettering's Active Volunteer Program, where she devoted an impressive 10,900 hours to helping others, reflecting her generous spirit and commitment to giving back to her community.

Family was the cornerstone of Gladys’s life. She adored her children, Dianna (Bob) Doyle and Robert "Bob" (Regina) Hensley, III, who were a constant source of pride and happiness. Her heart swelled with joy when she was in the company of her grandchildren - Jennifer, Amanda, Rachel, Loren, and Carmen - and she took immense delight in her 13 great-grandchildren and even her 4 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom benefited from her nurturing love and lively spirit.

Gladys was a woman of many talents and joyful pursuits. Memories flooded in of family gatherings where she played the spoons, even playing in Branson, Missouri. Her enthusiasm for life shone through in her love of line dancing, showing her zest for enjoyment and connection. She would frequently visit friends and loved ones in nursing homes, demonstrating her profound kindness and willingness to uplift others’ spirits.

For over 20 years, she sang in the church choir, her voice joining harmonies that brought comfort and joy to many. Gladys’s personality radiated warmth and gentleness; she was known as the nicest person one could ever meet, possessing an undeniably kind heart. She never spoke a bad word about anyone and had a remarkable ability to connect with those around her, always nurturing friendships with her outgoing nature and infectious laughter.

Gladys is now reunited with those who have gone before her, including her parents, Henry and Nannie Burge, and her dear husband of 45 years, Robert "Bob" Hensley, Jr. She also joins her five brothers and two sisters, bringing together her family once more in a place of peace.

Her legacy will forever remain in the hearts of her loved ones, a testament to a life well-lived and a soul that truly embodied love. Gladys L. Hensley will be lovingly remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family, her gentle spirit, and the countless lives she touched with her kindness and warmth.

Visitation will be held from 11:30am-1:00pm, on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at Newcomer Funeral Home, 3380 Dayton-Xenia Rd., Beavercreek, where the Funeral Service will begin at 1:00pm, with Reverend Dave Tackett officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Zion Shoup Cemetery, Beavercreek.

To view a Livestream of the Funeral Service, please CLICK HERE

Donations may be made in her memory to Hospice of Dayton, 324 Wilmington Ave., Dayton, OH, 45420.

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