Glenda Fay Smith

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Glenda Fay Smith, who left this world on Saturday the 15th day of February 2025, at the age of 65 at Medical City Hospital in Arlington, Texas. Glenda was born on the 1st day of December 1959, in Houston, Texas, to James Alford Hill and Laverne Lillian Strack. She was a loving mother, cherished grandmother, and a friend to all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Glenda’s life was a tapestry woven from love, kindness, and resilience. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents and her husband, Oscar "Buddy" Smith, Sr., with whom she shared 28 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they built a family rooted in love and support. Glenda is survived by her two devoted sons, Jason Smith and his wife Jessica, and James Smith and his wife Alexandra. She took immense pride in her role as a grandmother to her grandchildren: Elizabeth Smith, Seth Bradfield, Jason Smith Felts, Abbi Smith, Aurora Smith, Rylee Smith, Ellyana Smith, Emersyn Smith, and Daniel Smith. She also leaves behind her loving sister Sandra Anderson and husband Jon. Glenda’s family also includes numerous extended children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who brought endless joy into her life.

Glenda dedicated 21 years of her life to serving the Elkhart Independent School District as a custodian, where her upbeat spirit and unwavering work ethic made a lasting impact on students and staff alike. She was not just an employee; she was a beloved member of the community who always made the best of any situation. Her infectious laughter and happy demeanor were a source of comfort to those she encountered.

A proud member of the New Haven Missionary Baptist Church, Glenda found solace in her faith and built a strong community among her church family. Her love for the outdoors, crochet, and children defined many of her happiest moments. She relished taking her grandchildren for treats and spent countless afternoons enjoying the beauty of nature. Glenda’s zest for life was evident in everything she did, and her fun, loving personality drew people near her.

Glenda will be remembered for her ability to find happiness in the simplest of things, for her selfless nature, and the warmth she brought to everyone around her. She truly embodied the spirit of joy and love, leaving a legacy that will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Friends are invited to a visitation from six o’clock until eight o’clock in the evening on Wednesday, the 19th day of February 2025 at Rhone Funeral Home.         

Funeral services to honor the life of Glenda Fay Smith are to be conducted at two o’clock in the afternoon, on Thursday, the 20th day of February 2025 in the Rhone Memorial Chapel with John Gail and Butch Grant officiating the service.  Interment will follow in Pilgrim Cemetery.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Jason Smith, Sr., Jason Smith Felts, Jason McKinney, Kevin McKinney, James Smith, and Darrell McClelland.

Funeral services for Glenda Fay Smith are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas.  Please visit her online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with her family.

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