Gladys Marie Milam's Obituary
Gladys Corder Milam, 94, of Gun Barrel City, Texas, entered her heavenly home on September 19, 2025. She was born on November 5, 1930, in Cottonwood, Kaufman County, to John Corder and Mamie Saulter Corder.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Melvin E. Milam, her parents, her son C. Wayne Shewmaker, and grandsons Cody Carter and Brandon.
She is survived by her children: Shirley Carter and husband David; Douglas Shewmaker and wife Kay; Tricia Lambeth and husband Steve; and Sandra Robinson and husband Sammy. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Michael Shreaves; Ginger James (David); Tonya Roberts (Ryan); Shane Tally (Jaci); Heath Tally (Melisa); Kimberly Kilmer (Stuart); Stephanie Lambeth; Michael Lambeth (Kayla); Bradley Robinson (Jennifer); Amy Higginbotham (Brad); and Crystal Bowman(Davonte). Her legacy continues through 20 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great-grandchildren.
Gladys lived her life with extraordinary generosity and an unwavering devotion to her family. If she had something and someone needed it, she gladly gave it. She was known for her memory—sharp as an elephant’s—and for her independence and determination.
She never missed an opportunity to make someone feel remembered. Every birthday, her family, friends, and church family could count on a card from Gladys. When she was able, she enjoyed her morning walks, often stopping to pick up trash along the way, always caring for her community as much as she cared for her loved ones.
Holidays were especially meaningful to her, and no tradition was closer to her heart than Christmas Eve at Granny’s. For decades, her children and grandchildren knew exactly where they would be on December 24th. It was a time of gathering, laughter, and love—because she asked for just one day a
year, and no excuse would do. That night will forever remain one of her family’s most treasured traditions.
Gladys also carried a quiet strength in her faith and kindness. She faithfully visited the sick, offering comfort, prayer, and support wherever it was needed. She had a way of making everyone feel cared for and valued.
If you told Gladys you loved her, she would smile and say, “I love you more.” Her words and her actions reflected the truth of a life well lived—a life of love, faith, and giving.
Gladys Corder Milam will be deeply missed by her family and all who were blessed to know her. Her memory will live on in the countless lives she touched and in the family she loved so dearly.
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