Gladys Mae Topete

Loving mother, grandma, sister, and friend, Gladys Mae Topete (Graham) — affectionately known as “Jerri” — passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at the age of 91.

Born on October 31, 1932, in Los Angeles, California, to Virginia Selleck and Charles Graham, Jerri lived a vibrant and meaningful life defined by love, humor, and generosity.

Jerri worked in the service industry for much of her life, spending 26 years at Robinson’s May. Her vivacious personality and impeccable eye for fashion made her beloved by everyone she met. Outside of work, she brought the same energy and care to everything she did.

Jerri found joy in life’s simple pleasures, from watching Hallmark movies, listening to the music of Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole, and telling stories. She was an amazing storyteller. Her wisdom and wit were a gift to her family and friends, and she had a remarkable ability to make everyone in her life feel seen and valued.

Generous with both her time and love, Jerri embodied the spirit of giving in all that she did, including spending much of her retirement years taking care of her adored granddaughter Madeline.

Above all, Jerri was the heart of her family. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive by her son Rick, daughter-in-law Monica, granddaughter Madeline and her fiancé Michael, brother Chuck, several nieces and nephews, and many dear friends. Jerri is reunited in Heaven with her loved ones, including parents, Virginia and Charles; her sisters, Helen and Myrtle; her brothers-in-law, Gene and Emery; her sister-in-law, Connie; and her lifelong best friend, Shirley.

While we will miss her more than words can express, we take comfort in knowing she is at peace — and joyfully hearing out of her right ear again.

A celebration of Jerri’s extraordinary life will be held at the Topete family residence on March 15, 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause close to Jerri’s heart.