Gladys Elizabeth Hoke

Gladys Elizabeth Hoke(née Cousin)

Gladys Elizabeth Hoke (née Cousin), age 92, of Plainfield, New Jersey, went home to be with the Lord on August 8, 2026.

On the evening of August 8, 2026, our beloved Gladys—wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, cousin, and spiritual friend—was called to glory. Born on February 20, 1934, in North Carolina, Gladys was the youngest child, lovingly raised among her eight siblings by the late Tassel (Taz) Cousin and Julia (Woods) Cousin.

Gladys grew up in Mebane, North Carolina, a community where she was surrounded by close and extended family, creating a nurturing and loving environment that shaped her early years into the warm, caring spirit that followed her into adulthood. She attended and graduated from the historic Central High School in Orange County, which served as the only Black high school from 1936 to 1968 before desegregation. At the age of 18, she moved to New Jersey to join her older sister and begin the next chapter of her life.

Gladys began her career working in a school cafeteria, where she was affectionately known as the “cafeteria lady.” What started as an entry-level position grew into a rewarding career in food service and hospitality. She later transitioned into catering and eventually joined Marriott, where she built many years of dedicated service. During her time with Marriott, she received training as a sous chef, a role she truly enjoyed. Her commitment to excellence earned her numerous awards and service recognitions throughout her career.

Gladys took great pride in her work, and while cooking at home, she affectionately teased the family about Marriott’s high standards. Family and friends fondly recall hearing her say, “We don’t do it like that at Marriott!”

Although Gladys moved away from her childhood church home, Hunter Chapel A.M.E. Church in North Carolina, her faith remained an important part of her life. Whenever she was able, she enjoyed attending church services with her daughter, Stacey. Those who knew Gladys knew that she loved the Lord and had a deep appreciation for gospel music. Even in her later years, when speaking became more difficult, she continued to express her love for gospel songs by whistling the melodies that brought her comfort and joy. She also loved Motown tunes and would often sing them to her grandchildren.

Gerald:“I have many memories of Mom, but one I cherish is while we were walking in the snow. Mom fell, I tried to pick her up and ended up falling too. Our laughter echoed like sunshine melting winter’s chill.”

Donna:“One of my favorite memories of Mom was watching movies and game shows together while enjoying a good pizza. Those simple moments meant so much, and her wonderful sense of humor always kept us laughing.”

Deadrea:“One of my favorite memories of Mom was cooking together, playing cards, and shopping at her favorite store, Fortunoff. I miss those special moments and will treasure them forever.”

Gladys had many passions, but none greater than cooking for her family and friends. She was especially known for the extraordinary Thanksgiving dinners she prepared each year. Her holiday spreads were legendary and eagerly anticipated by everyone who gathered around her table. One memorable year, she transformed a Thanksgiving turkey into a masterpiece by decorating it with phyllo dough to resemble a tuxedo. The turkey was so beautiful that no one wanted to cut into it. Her creativity, attention to detail, and love for serving others were evident in every meal she prepared.

In addition to cooking, Gladys enjoyed spending time with family, listening to gospel music, the Blues, and Motown oldies, and playing bingo, which brought her much laughter, excitement, and fellowship over the years. Anyone who met her was drawn in by her warmth, sincerity, and genuine charm. To meet Gladys was to fall in love with the joy that shone brightly as a beacon of positivity.

Gladys was preceded in death by her devoted husband, William Hoke; previous husband, Thomas White; her young sons, Keith White and Latonya White; and her siblings, Samuel Cousin, Beatrice Lofton, John Cousin, Herman Cousin, Bertha Lambert, Floyd Cousin, and Calvin Cousin.

Gladys leaves to cherish her memory her children: Theresa Campbell and her husband, Melvin Campbell; Gerald White and his wife, Judy White; Donna McCulloch and her husband, Joseph McCulloch; Stacey Johnson and her husband, Ronald Johnson; and Deadrea Robinson and her husband, Phillip Robinson.

She was also blessed with beloved grandchildren: Pamela Wright Robinson, Starr White, Ebony White, Ronald Johnson Jr., and Dymond Johnson.

Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Darius Lambert and Mahogany White.

Gladys is remembered by special friends and family, including Toya (Wright) Michael and family; nephews, John Cousin Jr. and Kenneth Hoke; nieces, Barbara, Doretha, and Anita; and her beloved pet dog, Duke the Yorkie.

Gladys will be remembered for her unwavering faith, love for her family, dedication to her work, and her generous spirit. Whether she was preparing a meal, singing or whistling a tune, sharing wisdom, or enjoying a game of bingo, she brought warmth and joy to those around her. Her life was a testament to hard work, resilience, and love.

Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Services will take place on Friday August 14th, at the Shiloh Chapel. The viewing will be from 11 am to 12 noon. The  homegoing will begin at 12, and a repast will follow the service at the Grover Cleveland club, 904 Main st. Bethlehem PA 18018.  Burial will take place at 10 am on Saturday August 15th at Hillside Cemetery in Scotch Plains NJ.