Long time Durango resident, Gloria Joyce Crites, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on March 19, 2017 at the age of 82. She was born on May 25, 1934 in Shreveport, Louisiana to Charles W. and Cora Belle Gascon. In 1950 she married James F. Allen and in 1956 they moved to Durango. Gloria was a skilled seamstress, she did alterations for A&B Clothing, Stuarts of Durango and other local stores in the sixties. Gloria married Albert W. Crites on March 23, 1968; they were married for 48 years. This marriage brought together a total of six children. Crafts and all forms of hand work were her passion as was collecting antiques with her late husband. Gloria was well known as the secretary of Miller Jr High School and retired in 1991 after 24 years of service. Gloria is survived by her children Charles “Buddy” Allen (Diana), Gareth Crites (Cindy), James Weldon Allen, Alita Crites Fiorini (David), Daryl Crites (Sandy), Gloria “Sissy” Allen Dunagan (Dow), two sisters, Daisy Williams Collins and Charlotte Gascon Schneider (Dick). She is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Gloria was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband of 48 years. Funeral services will be held at Hood Mortuary Chapel, Friday, March 24, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Greenmount Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the Alzheimer's Association.