Gladys J. Aikens

Gladys J. Aikens, age 87 of Battle Creek, passed away Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. She was born August 18, 1937, in Battle Creek, Michigan, the daughter of Ralph D. and Florence (Finger) Edwards. Gladys was a 1955 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School and a lifelong resident of the area. She was a cook at Lakeview General Hospital until closing, then went to Albion Hospital and Win Schueler’s were she cooked until she was in her 70’s. Gladys loved playing Bingo at the American Legion Custer Post #54. She enjoyed fishing, camping and road trips up North. She also enjoyed watching the Detroit Lions and Tigers and wrestling on TV. Gladys loved her family. She is survived by two daughters: Diana J. (Judy Luna) Burke and Dawn L. (Will) Stagg both of Battle Creek; four granddaughters: Brandy (Scott) Hahn, Amber (Mike) Evans-Wagner, Alyssa (Brad Smith) Evans and Andria (Markis) Hernandez; six great-grandchildren; two sisters: Marie (Jack) Mullenix of Iberia, Missouri and Flora Casale of New Jersey; and numerous nieces and nephews. Gladys was preceded in death by her parents, four brothers, one sister, first husband Delvin C. Burke and second husband Ernest L. Aikens. In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place, and a private family graveside service will be held at Hicks Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements by the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home and Cremation Services. www.henryfuneralhome.org