Gladys Fern Coates January 14, 1937 – September 18, 2025

Gladys Fern Coates, 88, of Muncie, went home to be with the Lord on September 18, 2025, surrounded by family who dearly loved her. Born on January 14, 1937, in Bloomington, Indiana, Gladys moved to Muncie at a young age. She married the love of her life, the late Bob Coates, and built a life centered on her family and faith.

Her compassionate spirit shone through in her work as a home caregiver and later at a small boutique, where her creativity and warmth touched many. A woman of deep faith, Gladys was a devoted member of Christian Chapel Church. Her greatest joys were found in the simple things: tending her garden, baking for loved ones, crafting, and making memories with her family at their lake house. She will always be remembered for her giving heart and the unconditional love she showed her family.

She is survived by her daughter, Vickie Dobbs (husband Jimmy); 8 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and her sister, Judy Weans. She was preceded in death by her parents, Darrell and Mamie Dobbs; her husband, Bob Coates; her sons, Robert and Charles Coates; three grandchildren; her brother, Tommy Dobbs; and sisters, Mary Royal, Nancy Lutes, and Linda Garrett.

A gathering for family and friends will take place on Monday, September 29, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Gardens of Memory. The celebration of Gladys's life will begin at 2:00 PM, followed by the burial.