December 14, 1925 – November 1, 2024
NAGS HEAD — Wilma Gladden, a wonderful wife, mother, aunt, friend, and neighbor, passed away peacefully at her home in Nags Head, NC, on Friday, November 1, 2024. She lived a life of unconditional love and always put others above herself.
Born on December 14, 1925, in Soddy-Daisy, TN, near Chattanooga, she was the daughter of the late Mary B. and Earl Smith. As a young adult, Wilma married James W. Gladden, and shortly afterward, they moved to Alexandria, VA, where their children would be born. In 1969, the family moved to Nags Head, and the rest is history.
Wilma was the driving force behind The Blue Heron Motel in Nags Head, NC, which she owned and operated from 1969 until its sale in 2020. A smart and hardworking businesswoman, she was a great employer, creating an atmosphere that felt more like a home than a business. She often reminisced, “We’ve met some wonderful people” and “It was fun,” reflecting on the deep connections formed over the years. The motel was a hub of warmth and hospitality, epitomized by the annual pig pickin’ event in October that welcomed all guests and the family reunions in November that gathered loved ones for celebrations. Wilma’s role as a gracious hostess extended beyond events to everyday interactions; she was a great cook and loved to entertain.
Wilma had a passion for life’s simple pleasures, including the ocean, dogs, musicals, and chocolate. Her pretty blue eyes and radiant smile left a lasting impression on many. The legacy of The Blue Heron Motel, however, stands as her most enduring achievement, serving as a cherished gathering place for guests, some of whom became like family through decades of repeat visits. These guests, turned lifelong friends, were woven into the fabric of the motel’s history, creating a legacy of love and community that transcended the ordinary business-customer relationship, thanks to Wilma’s heartfelt hospitality and the special bond she nurtured with each visitor.
The matriarch of her family, she leaves behind a legacy of love in her children, Pam Gladden and Eric W. Gladden of Nags Head. At almost 99 years old, she outlived her husband, James W. Gladden; her son, James Eddie Gladden; all of her younger brothers and sisters, Raymond Smith, Lora Biron, William A. Smith, and Mary Perry; a very dear niece, Denise Biron; as well as other nieces and nephews; and many of her older friends. She missed them all, but now we believe she is reunited with them.
Wilma will be deeply and forever missed upon this Earth, but we know she is with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
A memorial service will be held in the future, with details to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Andrews By-the-Sea Episcopal Church, PO Box 445, Nags Head, NC 27959.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
