Glenda S. Willingham

Glenda S. Willingham, 82, of Lake Butler, Florida, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Lake Butler Hospital.

Born on June 14, 1944, at her family home in Lake Butler, Glenda lived a life centered on faith, family, and serving others. She possessed a special love for children and devoted more than 25 years as a preschool teacher, touching the lives of countless young students with her patience, kindness, and gentle spirit. Even after retiring from the classroom, Glenda continued her life's mission of helping children and families through her work with Head Start and the Florida Department of Children and Families.

Glenda found great joy in the simple blessings of life. She was an exceptional cook and baker who delighted in preparing holiday meals that brought her family together around the table. She treasured watching the birds outside her window, tending to her garden, reading a good book, searching for treasures at yard sales, and lovingly caring for the animals on the family farm. Her home was always filled with warmth, love, and the comforting aroma of something delicious in the oven.

A faithful member of Blackwelder Freewill Baptist Church in Worthington Springs, Glenda's unwavering faith guided her throughout her life. She was known for her compassionate heart, generous nature, and quiet strength, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory, including her devoted husband of 66 years, Paul Willingham; her sons, Joseph Willingham and Aaron (Rene) Willingham; six grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren.

Glenda was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Percy and Jewel Crawford Snyder; her son, Robert Willingham; and her siblings, Alfonso "Buddy" Snyder, Vashti Ray, and Ester Compton.

A funeral service honoring Glenda's life will be held on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Blackwelder Freewill Baptist Church in Worthington Springs. The family will receive friends at the church beginning one hour prior to the service.

Though her gentle presence will be deeply missed, Glenda's legacy of love, faith, compassion, and dedication to her family and community will continue to live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.