Gloria Conyears

Gloria Jackson Conyears, a former principal at Brinkley Public School, and wife of Rev. Oscar Conyears, pastor of Mount of Olives Ministries in Brinkley, passed away September 1, 2024. She was the third child of Blanche Collier Wilson (Loydell Wilson) and Willie James Jackson and was born on July 16, 1947. She was raised in the Jones Ridge Community in Marvell.
She was baptized at an early age at Branch Baptist Church in Marvell, and her faith remained a guiding force throughout her life. She attended Anna Strong School District in Marianna, where she graduated in 1964. She went on to pursue higher education, earning a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in 1971 and continued her studies, obtaining a Master’s degree from Trevecca Nazarene University.
Her career in education spanned over 40 years, during which she worked as a public school teacher, Dean of Students, and Junior High Principal. Gloria was more than an educator, she was a mentor, a confidant, and a constant source of motivation for those around her. She is known for her favorite slogan “I AM SOMEBODY.” Her passion for teaching inspired countless students and colleagues to reach their full potential. She was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Her commitment to uplifting her community and empowering others was a testament to her unwavering belief in the sorority’s mission.
In 1983, Gloria united with the love of her life, Rev. Oscar M. Conyears, and together they created a life filled with love, faith, and family. She joined Mt. of Olives Ministries Church in Brinkley, under the leadership of her husband.
Their union brought together six children, whom Gloria cherished and nurtured, Froncell Jackson, Tandra Conyears (Dr. Jose Desena Montero), Oscar M. Conyears III, who preceded his mother in death, Jonah Conyears, Gabrielle Conyears, and David “Jon Jon” Conyears, who also preceded her in death. She has five grandchildren, Kennidee Conyears, Teighlor Jonathan (Jon Jon) Quinn-Conyears, Lay Lay Conyears, Jayla Foster, and Cannon “Can Can” Arnold. She extended her motherly love to her nine Godchildren, whom she cherished.
She also leaves behind her siblings, James Jackson (Gwen Jackson), Dorothy Armstrong, Oretha Wilson, and Laverne Carter (Robert Carter). She was preceded in death by her sisters, Richie Scaife and Verniece Lowery;a  brother, Danny Jackson; and her God sisters, Margaret Leon and Gwen Minton.
She leaves behind her beloved husband, who was not only her partner, but also her best friend and soulmate. Together, they built a life filled with love and cherished memories.
Gloria ‘s legacy is one of love, faith, and unwavering dedication to family, friends, and community. She left an indelible mark on the lives of those fortunate enough to know her, and her memory will continue to inspire everyone.
Funeral services were Sunday, September 15 at Mt. of Olives Ministries in Brinkley with her husband, Rev. Oscar Conyears officiating. Interment was a private burial in Conyears Family Cemetery. Arrangements were by McNeil-Coleman Funeral Home of Brinkley.