Gloria Jean Noble

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of
Gloria Jean James Noble
“A Virtuous Woman of Faith, Family, and Grace”
Sunrise: November 10, 1945  Sunset: July 24, 2025

On a blessed autumn day, November 10, 1945, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, a beautiful baby girl was born to Mary Leah Butler and Cleo “Shabby” James. They named her Gloria Jean James — a name that would come to embody strength, elegance, and unconditional love.

Gloria’s formative years were guided by faith, family, and discipline. She received her early education at St. Monica Catholic School, continued at Bishop Kelley High School, and proudly graduated from Booker T. Washington High School, Class of 1964, a class known for its pride and purpose.

Early in life, Gloria entered into holy matrimony with John D. Minor III, and from this union, three children were born: John IV, Orlando Sr., and Sheron. After the untimely passing of her beloved John III in 1967, the Lord saw fit to restore her heart with new love. On June 8, 1973, Gloria married Melvin Noble Sr., the love of her life and steadfast partner of 52 years. Together, they welcomed a daughter, Nichol, and built a blended family rooted in love, hard work, and faith.

Gloria had an impeccable eye for detail and a graceful hand, which made her a masterful gift wrapper at Clark Fine Clothes. She also lent her talents to State Farm, Renberg’s, and McDonnell Douglas, all while holding her license as a cosmetologist — her creativity and flair evident in every curl and conversation. Alongside her husband Melvin, Gloria poured her entrepreneurial spirit into several family-run businesses including Noble’s Kerr McGee Gas Station, Nikki’s Kiddie Boutique, Glow with Glo Janitorial Service, and Crown Hill Funeral Home.

A woman of unwavering faith, Gloria remained a lifelong member of St. Monica Catholic Church, where she served joyfully and faithfully. Her ministry included roles in the Ladies Club, Catholic Daughters, as a Lector, and on numerous church committees. Her faith was never just spoken. It was lived out in service, in love, and in steadfast devotion to God.

Known affectionately by family and friends as "Glory Faye" — a nickname lovingly given by Ron Myers — Gloria exuded style, creativity, and compassion. She loved to shop, especially with her “Road Dog” Carolyn Myers, and her flair for interior decorating, crafting, sewing, and collecting porcelain dolls was unmatched. Later in life, her joy came through evening chats with her dear friends like Lanetta Vann and Cynthia Brown, conversations that always ended with laughter, wisdom, and love.

On the morning of July 24, 2025, our beloved Gloria peacefully answered the Master’s call. Heaven’s gates opened, and a faithful servant returned home. She was preceded in death by her parents and first husband John D. Minor III.

Gloria leaves behind a legacy of love and purpose. She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of 52 years, Melvin Noble Sr.; her children: John Minor IV (Tamela), Orlando Minor, Melvin Noble Jr., Sheron Brown, Fredrick Noble (Jennifer), and Nichol McConnell (Michael Sr.); her brother Ronald James; her uncle Lonnie Butler; her 31 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. She also leaves her special daughter Rochelle Nero-Givens, and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and friends who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

“Her children arise and call her blessed
Her husband also and he praises her”
Proverbs 31:28

Gloria Jean James Noble lived a life adorned with faith, defined by love, and guided by purpose. We rejoice in knowing she is now at peace, wrapped in the eternal arms of our Heavenly Father.

"Please wear the color purple  to the funeral services in honor of Gloria."

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