Gloria Delores Wilkins McClain, daughter of the late Ernest and Lois Malone Wilkins,was born, reared and educated in Wake County, NC. She was the eldest grandchild of John and Nonnie Donaldson Malone. Reared in a Christian home, Gloria was baptized at Martin Street Baptist Church where she was actively involved throughout her youth in Sunday School, BTU, Bible School and the Youth Choir.

Gloria attended public schools in Raleigh, NC, including Washington High School and Ligon High School. Upon graduation, she matriculated at Shaw University, where she met the love of her life, Albert Perry McClain. After graduation, they were joined in holy matrimony on December 19, 1959, at Martin Street Baptist Church, before eventually making their loving home in Chesilhurst, NJ. To their union were born two children, a son, Albert II and a daughter, Cynthia.

Gloria eventually ventured into her career as an educator in the New Jersey Public School System. She was a member of the Winslow Twp. Board of Education until her retirement after 35 years. She was also the first elected African American person to serve on the Camden County School Board.

Gloria resided in Chesilhurst for over 40 years. During her residency she served on the Drug Alliance Committee, the Democratic Club and schoolboard. Gloria was involved in Grant A.M.E. Church in Chesilhurst as a member of the Trustee and Missionary Board. She lent her skills and beautiful soprano voice to the choirs there. Gloria's family and friends always looked forward to hearing her angelic solos at Family Reunions back home. She was the recording secretary for the NJ Conference of the Women's Missionary Society as well.

In later years, Gloria became a loyal member of St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Pleasantville, NJ, where she served on the Trustee and Missionary Boards, sang in the choir and was the Pastors Aid President.

Gloria was predeceased by her dear parents, beloved husband Albert, her loving son Albert II ("Skipper"), and her precious great-grandson Amar Carter Davenport. Left to cherish her memory are her loving daughters, Cynthia D. Anderson and Joi D. McClain; grandchildren Bria, Brittany, Jamal, Malik, Albert III, and Jabril; great grandchildren Gabriel, Zion, Omar, Amoura Joi, Milah, Nafis, and Alyse; and a host of cousins and dear friends who loved her dearly.