Glenda Jean (Bayless) Willis

Glenda Jean Willis, age 65, of Palestine, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, the 19th day of September 2023, at Christus Mother Frances Hospital in Tyler, Texas.  Glenda was born in Cleburne, Texas, on the 30th day of December 1957, to parents Edgar Bayless and Cora Odom Bayless.

Glenda was a woman of many passions, but none were as important to her as her family. Known affectionately as "Nana," "Mom," and "Babydoll," she cherished every moment spent with her children and grandchildren. Her love for them was evident in everything she did, from shopping for the perfect gifts for her grandkids to being actively involved in their after-school activities. Whether it was a prom, a graduation, or a simple school play, Glenda was always there, cheering them on with her infectious enthusiasm and unwavering support.

Beyond her family, Glenda had a deep love for card games and board games. She was a formidable opponent at the game table, always ready with a playful smile and a competitive spirit. Her love for games was not just about winning or losing, but about the joy of spending quality time with her loved ones.

Glenda was also a gifted cook, known for her delicious meals that brought everyone together. Her kitchen was a place of warmth and love, filled with the aroma of her home-cooked meals. She believed that food was a way to express love and bring people together, and she did this with grace and generosity.

In addition to her culinary skills, Glenda had a green thumb. She loved gardening and landscaping, transforming her home into a beautiful oasis of flowers and plants. Her garden was a testament to her patience and dedication, mirroring the love and care she extended to her family and friends.

Glenda was a person of extraordinary generosity and selflessness. She gave without expecting anything in return, always putting others before herself. Her love was a beacon that guided her family through life's ups and downs, and her memory will continue to inspire them to live with the same love and generosity that she embodied.

Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her memory will continue to inspire those who knew her.  Glenda leaves behind her loving husband of 44 years, Emmit Willis; daughters, Misty “Mimi” Willis, and Glenda “Sissy” Jean Willis May and husband Charles Dale May, all of Palestine, Texas; son, Emmit “Bubba” Ray Willis, II and wife Carrie Jean Crane, of Palestine; sister, Sharon Bayless, of Hillsboro, Texas; and her brothers, Edwin Bayless and wife Darlene, of Ardmore, Oklahoma, Michael Bayless and wife Robin, of China Springs, Texas, David Bayless and Pat Jones, of Meridian, Texas.  Glenda will also be deeply missed by her grandchildren, Collin Nassen Grizzle, Sharon Rose Grizzle, Carter Scott Grizzle, Bridget Lee’ann Brame, Charles Nathaniel Willis, Corbin James Brame, Bonnie Anastyzia Emily Willis, Zebastian Eli Robert Willis, MarYah Emmarrie Dawn Willis, Esmerelda Marie Elizabeth Willis, Cora Louise Osei-Adjei, Woodrow Peter Osei-Adjei, and her special dog, “Butch”.    

Glenda is preceded in death by her parents Edgar and Cora Bayless, and her brother, Billy Bayless.

A funeral service to celebrate Glenda’s life is to be conducted at two o’clock in the afternoon, on Saturday, the 7th day of October 2023 in the Rhone Memorial Chapel with Bro. Joseph Robert and Sister Vickie Robert Slaughter officiating.

Friends may visit with the family one hour prior to the start of service at Rhone Funeral Home.

Funeral services for Glenda Jean Willis 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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