Obituary of Gloria E. Winston

ROCHESTER, NY – November 11, 2024 Gloria E. Winston, a revered and politically active figure within the Rochester community, passed away on November 11th, 2024 in Rochester, New York at the age of 79. Gloria was the living embodiment of the Malcolm X quote, “So early in my life I learned that if you want something, you better make some noise.” The oldest of three, Gloria was born on July 24th, 1945 in Newport News, Virginia. She is predeceased by; her father, James H. Winston Sr., (World War II veteran); mother, Eliza Wilma (Alexander) Winston; brother, Garson and high school sweetheart, Wallace Taggart Sr. Gloria is survived by; her brother, James Winston Jr. (Lillie); two sons, Wallace Jr. (Barbara) and Michael (Danielle); her grandchildren, Brandon, Tiffany, Jaeda and Brianna; her great-grandson, Xavier; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. She leaves to cherish her memory, many friends and loved ones. Gloria lived a ‘purpose driven life’! She was inspired to activism in her adolescent years and learned to contribute her voice through published columns and participation in community/political organizations. Her internal spark centered on improving her community and providing value to working families/individuals. She remained an advocate for civil rights and a powerful voice to inform the community. Gloria was a prolific writer and journalist, initially writing for About Time Magazine and later authoring a hard-hitting column (Straight, No Chaser) for the Minority Reporter. Her career included work at Rochester Jobs, Monroe Cty. Children’s Center, ABC Head Start and Laborer’s Local 435. Locally, she was instrumental in Mayor Lovely Warren’s successful inaugural campaign. Gloria was a close and long-term friend of Assemblyman David Gantt. Other close friends included the late John/Connie Mitchell, Minister Franklin Florence and Dr. Walter Cooper. Her activism spread beyond the Rochester area, working in Washington, D.C. for both Mayor Marion Barry and Jesse Jackson’s presidential campaign. “There are some people that come into your life and change it forever. There was no one more loyal, no one that loved harder, no one that told you how she felt, how you should feel and what you should do more than my adopted Aunt Gloria Winston Al-Sarag”; Mayor Lovely Warren Gloria participated in organizing the annual CLARISSA STREET REUNION; she fondly remembered her employment at the Pythod Club and Shep’s Paradise. Her reach in the Rochester community was extensive and she will be sadly missed by all. Friends may attend her viewing Saturday, November 23 from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, 141 Adams Street, Rochester, NY. The Funeral Service to Celebrate her life will immediately follow at 12 Noon with Reverand Lawrence Hargrave, officiating. Interment at the convenience of the family.