Gloria G. Ashburn

Gloria Gene Grooms Ashburn, of Melbourne, Florida, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, at 7:25pm, at the age of 81.

Gloria was born in Folkston, Georgia, to William Ross Grooms and Rachel Geiger Sandidge. She graduated from Eau Gallie High School as part of the school’s first graduating class. Following graduation, she proudly worked at Patrick Air Force Base for more than 30 years in base supply support.

Gloria was known for her loving and caring spirit. She deeply cherished her family and loved spending time together with those she held dear. Her warmth, kindness, and devotion to the LORD will always be remembered by everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Tracy Evette Ashburn (Doug) Butler; her grandchildren, Tyler and Brittany Butler (Scott); and her great-grandson, Cash Waters.

She is also survived by her brothers and sisters: Royce (Pamela) Grooms, Pamela Sandidge, Penelope Nighbert, Kathryn Cooper, Gregory (Cindy) Grooms, Kimberly Darnell, Joe (Paulette) Sandidge, Ricky (Fran) Sandidge, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

In addition to her parents, Gloria was preceded in death by her stepfather, Kenneth Sandidge; her stepmother, Macie Grooms; and her sister, Patricia Grooms.

Gloria’s love, strength, and gentle heart will forever remain in the memories of all who loved her.

Forever and Always, Amen

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Shepard-Roberson Funeral Home with Rev. Steve Crews officiating. The family will receive friends starting at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Brickyard Cemetery in Hilliard. Pallbearers will be Chad Nighbert, Michael Nighbert, Shawn Roddenberry, Ed Olivencia, Scott Waters, Brad Schuler, and Rick Gonzales.