On April 3, 1918, in a small town called Forney, Texas the world became a better place with the birth of Florence Mae Gleason. She was the fourth of ten children born to Willie and Carrie Mae Harley. Flossie as she was affectionately known was a born leader. She loved her siblings and cared for them growing up and even late in their years. Flossie had a wonderful spirit and a take charge attitude growing up. This was something that followed her until her passing.

Flossie was married twice. Her first marriage to Charlie Gleason produced three children: Arthur, Harold, and Sally Ann; Harold died at birth, and Sally Ann preceded her in death in 1999. Flossie\'s second marriage to James Dowthard produced one child, Sharon. Flossie had a special relationship with each of her children. As time and years passed, Flossie\'s legacy expanded and she became the matriarch of this family, providing Godly counsel and maternal support to many family members.

Flossie moved to California in 1946. She was a hard-worker and took pride in serving others. Growing up in a God-fearing family, her walk with Christ was something she took very seriously. She joined the Church of God in Christ denomination and served faithfully in various positions such as District Missionary, President of Hospitality, President of Pastor\'s Aide, and President of the Usher Board.

Flossie was known for her service and dedication. She often supported various missions and had a special love for the homeless. Many stories can be told about her loading the blue van with bread and clothes and heading to Skid Row to distribute to those in need on the streets of Los Angeles.

Flossie enjoyed cooking. Her homemade desserts (no peach cobbler or pecan pie is better!), gumbo, and southern cuisines were a regular request around the dinner table. She also supported her church families by preparing �dinners� as a means of fundraising. Who can forget her mouthwatering BBQ dinners or her baked chicken and potato salad?

The world became smaller on September 11, 2016, when Flossie\'s journey on Earth came to an end. For 98 years she lived her life faithful, fearless, and first-class. She leaves to cherish her loving memory her oldest son, Arthur Gleason (Marie), her youngest daughter Sharon Walker, both of Los Angeles, CA, her last surviving sibling, Willie Harley Jr. of Highland, CA, 15 grandchildren, two of which preceded her in death (Karl Gleason and Lisa Adams), 25 great-grandchildren, 31 great-great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-great-grandchildren. Additionally, a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends who were forever changed by her presence on Earth.