Gladys Hanger Abell was born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas, the daughter of a pioneer Tarrant County family.  She graduated from Paschal High School and attended Texas Christian University and the University of Texas at Austin.

Throughout her lifetime, Mrs. Abell was an active champion of civic and cultural causes, contributing her time, talents, energy, and financial resources as one of West Texas' most philanthropic citizens.  She served on the board of governors of Midland Memorial Hospital, board of trustees of Midland Presbyterian Homes, and the President's Club of the Museum of the Southwest.  She took great pride in her service on the board of trustees of the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum, Library, and Hall of Fame.

Her interests also included the Midland Odessa Symphony and Chorale, Midland Garden Club, Women's Auxiliary of Midland Memorial Hospital, Delta Delta Delta Midland Alumnae Chapter, and the Midland Women's Club of which she was a life member.

An avid American patriot, Mrs. Abell was a member of the Texas Chapter of the National Society of Colonial Dames of America, and the Daughters of the American Revolution.  She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Midland.