Gloria Frances Palese Hackney, 97, of Farmville, Va. died in her home on Wednesday
September 28, 2022. She was born August 17, 1925 in Brooklyn, NY. She was predeceased
by her husband, Warren Clayton Hackney, parents, Gerardo and Rosalie Palese, three
sisters, two brothers, a daughter, Theresa Roach, two sons-in-law, one daughter-in-law, and
her grandson, Chad. She is survived by her children Billy, Rosemary, Jimmy, Richard
(Chrissy), Donnie (Melody), Warren (Patti) and Roland (Michelle), 14 grandchildren, 20
great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild and numerous nieces, nephews, extended
family and friends.
She grew up in Brooklyn with parents who both immigrated from Italy. After the death of
her husband, she worked diligently in a variety of jobs to raise and support her eight
children. Family was a central part of her life, later finding great joy in babysitting a
number of her grandchildren. She was happiest to have a home full of family she had
cooked for, sitting around laughing, reminiscing and telling stories. In retirement, she
enjoyed reading, visiting her family, cross-stitching, crossword puzzles and Perry Como.
She had many friends throughout her life with whom she enjoyed spending time at the
salon and driving to breakfasts, occasionally without a valid driver’s license. She loved the
Lord and was a devout Catholic, most recently worshiping at St. Theresa’s in Farmville. She
died where she wanted to, surrounded by family at her home at the Woodland where she
knew many neighbors, friends and home health aides who brought comfort,
companionship and support in her final years of life. Her smile and spirit will surely be
missed.
The family will receive friends Thursday, October 6, 6 to 8 p.m. at Puckett Funeral Home in
Farmville. Funeral will be Friday, October 7, 11 a.m. at St. Theresa Catholic Church in
Farmville. Burial will follow on Tuesday, October 11, 1 p.m. at Virginia Veterans Cemetery
in Amelia, Va.
