It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gloria Enid Forward (Hurlbert). Gloria passed away peacefully on August 19, 2025, at home surrounded by her loving family.
Gloria was born in Bottineau, North Dakota March 22, 1943, the second of eight children to George and Elnor (Bjornseth) Hurlbert.
Gloria started school in Eckman, ND, then in the spring of 1957, along with her family, they relocated to Anaconda, Montana where she later married Clancy Forward. Together they had four children.
Gloria’s first job was at a café in Armstead, MT. She spent many years working in cafés around Montana and later as a dietitian at the Community Nursing Home until she retired.
In her free time, Gloria was an amazing baker, known for creating beautiful cakes for weddings, birthdays, and special occasions. She always looked forward to spending time with family at the annual holiday gatherings and on special occasions where her presence will be deeply missed. Gloria built a life centered around family, kindness, and quiet strength. She will be remembered for her warmth and gentle spirit.
Gloria was preceded in death by her husband Clancy, brothers Donnie, Jerome and Duane, and grandson Matthew James.
Gloria is survived by her siblings Karen (Pat) Mulcahy, Nancy (Serge) Meyers, Marlys Hurlbert, and Dave (Cheryl) Hurlbert and sisters-in-law Katherine and Patty Hurlbert. Her children Nina Forward, Rhonda (Bill) Barnes, Jody (Shawn) Glanton and Clancy (Carla) Forward. Grandchildren Valerie, Joey, Laci, Jamie, Jessica (Brandon), Jennifer, Monica (Kyle), Mariah (Danny), Cory (Keeley), Ashley (Brady), and Tyler. Numerous great-grandchildren (one on the way), and nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends and neighbors who meant the world to her.
Gloria left a lasting impact on everyone she met, and her memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved her. Her wisdom and loving spirit will be deeply missed.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
Axelson Funeral & Cremation Services is privileged to care Gloria and her family.
Please visit below to leave a condolence or share a memory of Gloria.
Service Schedule
Service Schedule
Share
Karen Mulcahy says
BEAUTIFUL Sister!!!
Missi Derenburger says
what a privilege to have loved her and been a part of her family for all these years the sweetest most loving human i love each and every one of you and am sending you all comforting hugs!!
Carol Smith says
Sorry to hear of her passing thoughts and prayers to the family my condolences to family
Marlys Hurlbert says
Family was everything to Gloria–sure going to miss you, love you!!
Elaine Bjornseth Hett says
We are so sorry to hear about Gloria’s passing. Thoughts and Prayers are with you and your family! I remember us playing and curling our hair. We had to heat up the iron over the Lantern heat. Many fun memories! Many Blessings to you, Dear Bjornseth Cousin!
Karlee Fleming says
I am so sorry for your loss. My many thoughts and prayers are with you all. Gloria was a very special lady. Love you all 🙏❤🙏
Patricia Carson says
Although I never knew Gloria, her death impacted close members of my family. My niece Carla who is married to her son Clancy, has given her the highest praise. According to her she, she was treated like a daughter for over 30 years. This meant the world to Carla because she needed that mother figure in her. Gloria blessed her with kindness, guidance, and most of all love. She was a wonderful woman and role model. My respect for Gloria, and condolences go out to all of her family and friends who move on without her.
Monica Bateman 🌻 says
Thank you, Grandma, for being such a beautiful part of every wonderful memory in my life. You gave me so much love, comfort, and joy, and I am forever grateful for the moments we shared. You were not only the most loving grandmother to me, but also the best great-grandmother my boys could ever have. We will miss you so much, but your love and laughter will always live on in our 💕 I find peace in knowing that when you got to heaven, you were reunited with my brother, and I hope the very first thing you did was wrap him in one of your incredible hugs🤗 boy will I miss those hugs! And waking you up on surprise visits with a kiss on your cheek.. Thank you for everything, Grandma — we love you forever 🌻
Our sunflower memory has been so heavy on my mind lately!
Donna Bahr says
A gentle soul has gone, but the love remains eternal.
Forever in many hearts 😘
Rachel McCracken Brown says
Jody and kids sending lots of hugs and love your way.