In loving memory of Gloria Espeut Dennis who died on October 16, 2026 at the age of 102 years old, leaving behind two daughters: Leonora and Denise; three granddaughters: Amy, Lani, Judea and only grandson, David. Gloria also leaves behind her youngest sister, Marjorie and her god-daughter, Gail; many nieces and nephews, grand and great-grand nieces and nephews, cousins, second and third cousins and friends, who will all miss her very much.

Gloria was born on the island of Jamaica to her beloved and devoted mother, Mabel, and her beloved and devoted father, David, her Mamaa and her Papaa, who both passed away in the 1960s. We take great comfort that she is reunited with both her parents and with her siblings who preceded her: beloved Ossie, Cecelia, Enida, Veronica, and only brother David.

Her beloved family began with the Espeuts and the McKenzies who settled in Jamaica where Gloria was destined to become a prolific singer-songstress at a very early age. She was loved by many Jamaicans who dub ‘ed her “The Jamaican Songbird” and she went on to capture singing titles at the legendary talent show “Vere Johns Golden Opportunity Hour”, in Jamaica and the Apollo Theater, in New York City where she was honored with five standing ovations. At that time, three words, “Jamaica’s Sarah Vaughan” was used to describe her, and Gloria went on to sing professionally for many years to come.

In her later years, she continued to sing informally at events for family and for friends, up to her very last days. God bless you mom, rest in peace… we know you always tried to do your very best and we will “all” meet again in Heaven.

On November 12, 2026, after leaving Boyd Panciera Family Care, located at 1600 N. University Drive, Pembroke Pines, Florida, Gloria was interred at Vista Memorial Gardens, Miami Lakes, Florida 33014.

With a beautiful Catholic graveside service “The Rite of Committal” led by Father Luis Garcia.

With “Ave Maria” being sung by beloved grandson David.

With words spoken by eldest grandchild Amy to include mom’s favorite poem

“After the Clouds” by Helen Steiner Rice.
After the clouds, the sunshine,
After the winter, the spring,
After the shower, the rainbow –
For life is a changeable thing;
After the night, the morning
Bidding all darkness cease,
After life’s cares and sorrows,
The comfort and sweetness of peace.