Gloria Jean Means, 76, of Chillicothe, passed away Monday, January 5, 2026, at Adena Regional Medical Center in Chillicothe. She was born February 22, 1949, in Portsmouth, Ohio, to the late Oscar E. and Mary Edna (Ramey) Swords. Along with her parents, Gloria was preceded in death by five brothers, Oscar Jr. “Buddy” Swords, Timmy Swords, Archie Swords, Ronnie Swords, and Wilbur D. Swords.
Gloria was a 1967 graduate of Portsmouth West High School. After high school, she worked a few jobs before finding a job at GE in Circleville where she later retired. Gloria enjoyed staying busy and never passed up the chance to attend an auction—especially when there was something worth bidding on. She loved to bid and loved to win even more. In the springtime, she could often be found at yard sales, always searching for the next great find. Above all, Gloria treasured time spent with her family and looked forward to being together throughout the year. Her warmth, laughter, and competitive spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
She is survived by her husband, Albert Means, whom she married on August 8, 1970; her son, Albert Nicholas Means; her brothers, Johnny (Linda) Swords, Ricky (Judy) Swords, Albert Swords, and Scott (Susie) Swords; her sisters, Cherry (Mark) Briggs and Tressa (Kevin) Hackworth; along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Friday, January 9, 2026, at the Roger W. Davis Funeral Home in West Portsmouth and interment in Mershon Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday beginning at 11:00 AM. Condolences may be sent to www.rogerwdavisfuneralhome.com.
