Gilda Ann Landers

Gilda Ann Landers, 78, passed away peacefully at her home in Sulphur Springs, Texas.

Gilda graduated from Sulphur Springs High School in 1966. After graduation, she attended East Texas State University in Commerce, Texas.

There, she met Larry Joe Landers, and they were married the following year in December 1967.

In February 1971, they welcomed daughter; Angela Paige. Followed by son; Jacob Ryan in early August 1976.

Gilda began her career in the office of the Northeast Texas Farmers' Co-op before entering the field of education in 1973 with the Sulphur Springs Independent School District Tax Office.

She later served as secretary to the principal at Sulphur Springs Middle School on Bell Street, where she became a familiar and beloved presence to countless students, parents, and faculty members.

During the 1980s and 1990s, Gilda began helping friends cater special events, discovering a passion and talent that would blossom into a lifelong endeavor.

What started as lending a hand grew into the annual tradition of catering the Sulphur Springs Middle School eighth-grade banquet for more than twenty years. By the early 2000s, she had established her own business,

GAL's Gourmet, where her creativity and artistry in food presentation became her signature. Even in retirement, Gilda rarely slowed down. Her beautifully crafted food displays kept her busy, and she continued working a few days each week in the office of the Sulphur Springs Livestock Commission.

When the work was finished, Gilda and Larry spent their time at Lake Quitman, a cherished family retreat for the Gideons, Abercrombies, Landers, and all their friends. Many picnics were enjoyed, celebrations were shared, and lasting memories were made at "The Lake."

Gilda never believed in sitting still. Whether serving her community, adventuring with her beloved family and friends, or lending a helping hand wherever she was needed, she approached every moment with love, kindness, and a generous spirit.

Gilda is survived by her eldest brother, Bob Gideon; her daughter, Angie; her daughter-in-law, Shanna; and her grandsons, Tyler (Kariya), Caleb (Rachel and Cole), and Colton (Jaylynn). Gilda was preceded in death by her parents, Skillman and Virginia Gideon; her brother, Bill Gideon; her sister, Barbara Abercrombie; her husband, Larry; and her son, Jacob.

Funeral Service for Gilda Ann Landers will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 16, 2025, at West Oaks Funeral Home. Visitation at 10am one hour prior.

Arrangements are under the direction of West Oaks Funeral Home.

www.westoaksfuneralhome.com

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