In the quiet days of late August 2025, two families—one in Maryland, the other in Virginia—are gathering to honor the lives of Gloria Ann Williams and James Augustus Drewry, two individuals whose journeys touched countless people and whose legacies will live on through generations. Their stories, while unique, are bound by the threads of love, service, and community that define the best of American life.
Gloria Ann Williams was born on August 15, 1938, in Gaithersburg, Maryland, the cherished daughter of Willis and Virginia Sirk. From her earliest days, Gloria was known for her radiant spirit and infectious warmth. According to Legacy.com, her life was a tapestry woven with laughter, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to her family. She passed away peacefully on August 21, 2025, at the age of 87, surrounded by those who loved her most.
Gloria’s family was the center of her world. She is survived by her children, Michael (Lisa) Williams, Stacy Finnell, and Chris (Tina) Williams. Her pride in her grandchildren—Aaron (Danielle) Finnell, Stephaine Williams, Paige Finnell, Joshua Williams, Jonathan (Cora) Williams, Christine Williams, Thomas Bradford, and Gabrielle Bradford—was matched only by the joy she found in her great-grandchildren: Payton Carol, Dallas, Kai, Wesley, Knike David, and Ehmze David. She was also a loving sister to the late Randy Sirk, Michael (Gretchen) Sirk, and Bill Sirk.
Those who knew Gloria remember her as a bright light, someone whose spirit could lift a room. She found happiness in the simple pleasures of life—crafting beautiful creations, preparing hearty meals for her loved ones, tending to her garden, and sharing her love of music as a member of her church choir. As Legacy.com notes, "Her vibrant spirit touched all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed."
To celebrate Gloria’s life, her family has invited all who knew and loved her to a visitation at Frederick Funeral Home, located at 2553 Banning Rd., on Monday, August 25, 2025, from 10:00 AM until the time of the funeral service at 11:30 AM. The gathering promises to be a testament to a life well-lived and a heart well-loved. As her family says, "Her memory will live on through stories filled with love and laughter."
Meanwhile, in Seaford, Virginia, another family is preparing to say farewell to James Augustus Drewry, who passed away peacefully on Friday, August 15, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on October 25, 1932, in Wakefield, Virginia, James was the son of Howard Drewry, Sr. and Edith Warren Drewry. His life was defined by service—to his country, his community, and above all, his family.
James proudly served in the U.S. Army and was a veteran of the Korean War. After his military service, he spent his career at Amoco Oil Refinery, where he built a reputation for reliability and hard work. But perhaps what stood out most about James was his role as the “backbone of support for his family,” as described in his obituary. He was a loving and devoted husband to Nancy Jones Drewry for 67 years, a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a friend to many.
James is survived by his wife Nancy, his sons Franklin Drewry (Kim), Eugene Drewry (Heather), Wayne Drewry (Kim), and Wayne Strickland, as well as eight grandchildren: Melissa (Josh) Arneault, Danny (Amy) Drewry, Dean (Ashley) Drewry, Thomas (Elizabeth) Drewry, Lauren Irby, Paige (Cody) Williams, Courtney Drewry, and Jami (Dylan) Kello. The family tree continues to grow with eight great-grandchildren—Brandon, Brooklyn, Camryn, Trent, Brody, Easton, Trey, and Waylon—and two more on the way. He is also survived by siblings Billy Drewry (Rosalie), Emmett Drewry (Lizzie), and Thomas Drewry (Joanne), along with many nieces and nephews.
James’s retirement years were filled with adventure and connection. He traveled to Europe, Alaska, Myrtle Beach, and enjoyed numerous bus tours with close friends. Whether cheering at local ball fields for his grandchildren’s sports or striking up conversations with strangers while wearing his veteran’s hat, James was a fixture in his community. He never knew a stranger, and his presence was always felt wherever he went.
Funeral services for James will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Seaford Baptist Church, with Pastor Shaun Brown officiating. A reception will follow, allowing friends and family to share memories and celebrate a life of steadfast support and quiet heroism. Additionally, a visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, September 2, 2025, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM at R.W. Baker & Co. Funeral Home in Wakefield, Virginia, followed by interment and military honors at 3:00 PM at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk, Virginia.
The Drewry family has expressed deep gratitude to the nurses, staff, and Hospice at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital for their compassion and kindness during James’s final days. In lieu of flowers, they have asked for memorial contributions to the Wounded Warrior Project or the Horton Wreath Society, organizations that reflect James’s lifelong commitment to service and remembrance.
As these two families gather to honor their loved ones, the communities of Gaithersburg and Seaford are reminded of the power of legacy. Gloria Williams’s life was a celebration of family, creativity, and joy—a reminder that the simplest acts of love can echo through generations. James Drewry’s story is one of service, steadfastness, and community—a testament to the quiet strength that holds families and towns together.
It’s easy, in the rush of daily life, to forget the impact a single life can have. But as friends and relatives come together in these days of remembrance, they find comfort in shared stories and the enduring bonds of love. Whether through Gloria’s laughter echoing in the kitchen or James’s proud salute at a local parade, their spirits linger, inspiring those who follow to live with the same generosity and warmth.
In the end, the lives of Gloria Ann Williams and James Augustus Drewry remind us that legacy is built not just in grand gestures, but in everyday moments of kindness, support, and joy. Their families, friends, and communities will carry those lessons forward, ensuring their memories remain bright for years to come.