Gloria Jane McNurlen was born in Adel, Iowa, to Dwaine Spillers and Pearl Glidden in 1926. Her marriage to Ora (Frank) Ward gave her two children: Elizabeth (Beth) S. Fleming and Brian F. Ward. In 1957 the family moved to Ames. After a divorce, Gloria married Keith A.McNurlen in 1964 who preceded her in death in 1973. In 1979, Gloria moved to Del Mar, California, where she was a successful realtor for years. She continued her love affair with the ocean by walking the beaches daily and making many friends along the way.

Gloria maintained lifelong friendships and considered her friends in Iowa and California as special treasures. She loved her two children, four grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren immensely. Survivors include her daughter Beth and Beth's three children: Brady Fleming (wife Shannon and daughters Liliana and Eva), Kiley Mars (husband Matt and children Zebulun and Keziah), Cody Fleming, and her son Brian and daughter-in-law Kay, and their son Brian (wife Jen and children Kelsey and Jacob). Gloria's partner, Lou Oberman, has three children (Marc Oberman, Brian Oberman & Caryn Oberman ). She considered them and their children a special part of her life and family as well. Gloria leaves behind dear sisters Floy Braddy and Renee Griffith, her special, extended McNurlen family and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her son-in-law David Fleming.

Gloria continually found ways to impact others by extending kindness and love. One of her passions was delivering meals for Mama's Kitchen to AIDS patients confined at home. She did this weekly for fourteen years and was hailed as a favorite visitor. She also helped the San Diego Police Department in supporting families during crisis calls. Her legacy of giving continues as she has donated her body to Des Moines University to help in the field of medicine. Her life will be celebrated at a future date.

The family is humbled and grateful for the love, compassion and sensitivity shown by Israel Hospice House staff during Gloria's brief stay. Memorials for her may be made to: Israel Hospice House, 400 S. Dakota, Ames, IA 50014. Online condolences may be sent to www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com


A 2007 Mothers Day tribute captures Gloria:

Admirable, Adventuresome, Adaptable, Attractive

Bella, Beaming Beachwalker, Bargain hunter

Charming, Classy, Captivating Cook

Delightfully, Daring Diva

Elegant, Energetic

Fashionable Frequent Flyer

Gracious, Generous Great Grandma

High Class, Humorous, Healthy and Happy

Independent, Incomparably Incredible

Joyfully Jubilant

Kindhearted

Lively, Lavish and Loves Italy

Memorable, Matchless Mother

Notable, Nice, Natural born hostess

Outgoing, Optimist, "Oh honey!"

"Precious", Passionate, People-person

Quick, Queenly, Quixotic, Quality

Regal Realtor and Reader

Stylishly Successful Saleswoman

Trendy Traveler

Uniquely Upbeat

Vivacious Vibrant Volunteer

Wacky Wonderful Wedding Planner

Xtraordinary

Youthful

Zesty, Zany Driver