Obituary: Gladys Marie “Midge” Cossar
Gladys Marie “Midge” Cossar, a beloved housewife and devoted homemaker, passed away peacefully in Bolivar, Tennessee, on February 23, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on April 19, 1937, in Bolivar, she lived a marked by love, family, and vibrant spirit.
For 15 years, Midge contributed to the community by working in the cafeteria at Bolivar Elementary School, where her kind presence and warmth were felt by many. But it was her role as a mother that defined her life. Midge was a true “firecracker,” taking immense pride in her children and considering them her greatest accomplishments. She was especially fond of her son, Billy, often picking out a four-leaf clover from her yard before each of his baseball games, a testament to her unwavering support and belief in her family.
Midge’s personality shone through in her passions: she had a particular enjoyment for playing “Ms. Pac-Man,” watching western movies, and cheering on the Atlanta Braves. Her culinary skills were renowned, as she was an excellent cook known for always preparing more than enough, with an extra chair ready at the table for anyone who might drop by.
A cherished member of Dixie Hills Baptist Church, Midge built strong relationships within her church community and extended warmth and kindness to all who knew her. Midge’s legacy will live on through her loving family, which includes her daughters, Debbie Cole of Bolivar and Melissa Dawn Hamberger and Martin of Geneva, Switzerland; her son, William Robert “Billy” Cossar, III and Sharon of Bolivar; her grandchildren, Chris Deming and Jamie, Brittany Deming, Jack Hamberger, Blane Cossar and TaHanna, Austin Cossar and Brooke; and her great-grandchildren, Abram and Eli Deming, Liam and Lexie Helton, Savannah Lee and Kiley Collins, Tannsley and Taylon Cossar. She is also survived by her sister, Ann McMahan of Bolivar.
Midge was preceded in death by her loving husband, William Robert “Boe” Cossar, Jr., to whom she was married for 68 years prior to his passing; her parents, Parnell Theodore Vickers and Grace L. Henson Vickers; and her siblings, Charles Vickers and Fairy Ruth Young.
A graveside service to honor her life will be held at Bolivar Memorial Cemetery on February 28, 2026, starting at 10:00 AM. Midge Cossar leaves behind a rich legacy of love, joy, and a spirit that will forever inspire those who were fortunate to know her.
Memorial contributions in her name may be sent to the charity of the donor’s choice. Shackelford Funeral Directors of Bolivar were in charge of arrangements.
Courtesy of Shackelford Funeral Directors, Bolivar, Tennessee.
Read more obituaries by clicking here.
Stay informed on what’s happening in Hardeman County by following Hatchie Press on Facebook and subscribing to Hatchie Press e-mail updates.
