Gloria Hartzog-Martin

GLORIA J. MARTIN, 79, of Chicago, Illinois, peacefully departed this life on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at John H. Stroger Junior Hospital of Cook County. She was born on March 16, 1946, in Madison, Mississippi, to the late Tuck Russell and Charlotte Washington. A LIFE OF FAITH Gloria’s unwavering faith was the cornerstone of her life. She accepted Christ at an early age and grew up attending Rocky Hill Missionary Baptist Church in her hometown of Madison, Mississippi. Her dedication to serving the Lord remained steadfast throughout her years, primarily through her devoted service as an usher. For a brief period, she also embraced the role of “ rst lady.” After relocating to Chicago in the mid-1980s, Gloria joined Christian Valley Baptist Church, where she continued her faithful service as an usher until the Lord called her home. A WOMAN OF MANY TALENTS Gloria was known for her tireless work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. Her diverse career path began in the food service industry as a dietary aide, and she also served as a substitute teacher. During the 1980s housing boom, she to co launch Hartzog Brick Masonary, a successful brick masonry business. After her move to Chicago, she continued her entrepreneurial ventures by establishing popular snowball stands that became neighborhood favorites. PRECEDED IN DEATH Gloria was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Eugene Martin; daughter, Katie K. Wheaton; grandson, Dijon Mitchell; parents, Tuck Russell and Charlotte Washington; and siblings, Dennis Trimm, Frank James Jackson, Josephine Bell, and Collier Madison, Jr. She was also preceded by her step-siblings, Willie Green, Sr., Frank Green, Isaac Green, Jacob Green, Wince Green, William “Bill” Green, and Ollie Johnson. SURVIVED BY Gloria’s legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched. She is survived by her sons, John H. Green (Donna), Kendall D. Wheaton (Penny), Ervin E. Wheaton, Shannon Wheaton, and Shantae R. Hartzog (Richard); siblings, Joseph Trim (Sarah), Dorothy Ann Williams, and Mapel Lee Washington; uncle, AC Clincy; 28 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; step-children and step-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, and church family. REMEMBERING GLORIA Gloria J. Martin will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to God, her industrious spirit, and her strong passionate presence. Her life exempli ed faith in action, from the rural churches of Mississippi to the bustling neighborhoods of Chicago. rough her service, her business ventures, and most importantly, her love for family, Gloria created a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. She leaves behind not just a family, but a community that was enriched by her presence and will forever cherish her memory.

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