Gloria Anita DeRoy (nee Phang) passed away on January 16th 2026 in Syracuse, NY. Born in Guyana, she was the daughter of Irene Phang and George Persaud. Her early career began in Georgetown, Guyana, where she was employed at Bookers Stores Ltd (later renamed Guyana Stores) as a retail supervisor in the Men’s Department overseeing millinery, shoes, and clothing. Years later, she migrated to the United States and graduated from the Allen School of Nursing as a certified Nursing Assistant. In this role, she truly found her life’s purpose, helping others at their most vulnerable and needy times.

She was a devout Catholic and drew comfort and strength from her faith throughout her life. She was also highly creative, with a particular love of fashion. An accomplished seamstress, she took pride in designing and making her own clothes, expressing individuality and care through what she wore. She enjoyed meeting new people and was known for her warmth in conversation and her interest in a wide range of subjects.

Her work was central to her sense of identity and remained important to her even as dementia progressed. It was a source of structure, connection, and purpose that endured when much else became uncertain. She will be remembered by colleagues and acquaintances as kind, charming, and generous in spirit, and as someone who took pride in her children.

She is survived by her two daughters, Jo Anne and Candy, and one granddaughter. She was predeceased by her parents, her brother Gordon “Pats” Phang and her grandson. She was the ex-wife of John DeRoy. 

The funeral service will be held on Wednesday January 21st 2026 at 11:00 AM at Holy Cross Dewitt Church, 4112 East Genesee St, Syracuse NY 13214, with interment at the St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Calling hours will be on Tuesday 1/20/26 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Hollis Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to her Alzheimer’s Association tribute page Alzheimer's Association - In Memory of our mother, in recognition of the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on her life.