Gloria B. (Jirel) Thoren, 92, of Columbia, SC passed away in her home Monday, February 1, 2021. She was born in Columbia, November 22, 1928 to the late Dock and Maude (Cartledge) Jirel. She was youngest of 6 children. In her early years, Gloria had numerous jobs in Columbia including Switchboard Operator, Department Store Clerk, and Secretary. In 1951 she met University of South Carolina grad Robert Thoren of Elgin, IL. They married and moved to Elgin, IL and raised 2 children: Steven and David. While in Elgin, Gloria was active with the Follies, The Zonta Club and a member of Elgin Country Club. Professionally, she was office manager of a small oil company. She and Robert divorced in 1973 and she remained in Elgin for 8 more years until returning to her hometown of Columbia.  Upon her return, she became an Assistant Associate Judge, and she performed many marriages. While she retired in 1994, she continued to be a Justice of the Peace and kept performing marriages for many years. She was also a Process Server. Gloria had quite the sense of humor and wit. She loved to read, was a master bridge player, loved going to the beach and she played golf for many years. She attended the Masters Tournament countless times and always sat at the 15thhole. In her later years, she watched golf every weekend on TV. She was also an avid Chicago Cubs and Bears Fan. She was a 37-year resident of Middleborough Condos where everyone knew Glo. She was the Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy Champ amongst her cocktail-hour group. Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings Frank, Isabel, William, Gladys & Dock, also a great grandchild Lilly Rado. She is survived by her two sons: Steve (Maureen) of Elgin, IL and David (Marsha) of Belvidere, IL. Also, three grandchildren and eight great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and countless friends. A special thanks to her niece Tammy who was her personal nurse and loving companion over the last year. A memorial gathering is scheduled at Moseley Funeral Home in West Columbia Sunday, February 7 from noon to 3:00. In leu of flowers, donations can be made to Epworth Children’s Home in Columbia. 

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