Gladys L Oxley

Gladys Leola (Dixon) Oxley, born in Boston on October 29,1917 was the daughter of the late Lydia Chute Dixon and the late John Dixon and sister of the late John Dixon, Jr. She was married to the late John R. Oxley, an activist for human rights, was his strength and the “woman behind the man”, always giving him support. She is survived by her loving children, Jacqueline Wilson (spouse: Robert, deceased), Dolores Lewis (spouse: Roger, deceased), John Oxley Jr., and William “Billy” Oxley and loved by her grandchildren, Leslie Lewis (spouse:Steven Evans), Tanya Wilson, Scott Lewis (spouse:Gina), Justin Wilson (spouse: Ameika); great-grandchildren, Skye, Cameron, Jayla, Gavin, Chayse and Astyn; and great-great grandchildren, Cole and Quinn.

Known as Mom, Ma, Nana, Nana Banana, Glad, Sis and Mrs. O, she lived in the city of Somerville, in the same neighborhood, for all of her 104 years. She graduated from Somerville High School and worked at Raytheon in Waltham, as an Assembler, making intricate parts for military equipment during the war era. She continued to work there for 29 years before retiring. While working at Raytheon she met her best friend, Gwen. She would often tell us the story of how they met when Gwen walked into her department and they immediately formed a friendship that lasted for over 69 years. They spoke of their devoted friendship during her last days.

In her close knit West Somerville neighborhood, she was the last matriarch of her generation. A woman of the ages, who never indulged in alcohol or cigarettes, perhaps that’s a clue to her long, grand life. She always wanted to be a Nurse, but the times wouldn’t allow for that wish. Although, for many years, she was her husband’s nurse during his last days of fighting Alzheimer’s. She became very depressed after the death of her husband. Her neighbor across the street, Etta, noticed her depression and convinced her to join a ceramics class that she taught out of her home. Although quite shy, she joined the group and really enjoyed it. We all enjoyed the gifts of cups, ashtrays and the beautiful ceramic Christmas tree she made, for many years.

Gladys remained sharp until the very end, sharing stories of her family, but still not sharing that recipe for her famous wine cake. She was a wonderful person of faith and it was a great blessing to have her in our lives for so many years. She was the best mother and grandmother and will be deeply missed by friends, family and all that knew her..

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