In Loving Memory of Glenda (Parsons) Swander

Glenda Avis Swander, nee Parsons, entered her eternal home on November 16, 2025, at the age of 88. Born in 1937 in a farmhouse along the banks of the North River in Shelby County, Missouri, Glenda's early life was rooted in the simplicity and richness of rural living. She attended a one-room schoolhouse through the sixth grade-located right on her family's property-before graduating from North Shelby High School in 1955.

Glenda continued her education at Hannibal-LaGrange College, where she met the love of her life, Walter "Walt" Swander. After graduating, she worked for Jostens Yearbook in Hannibal. She married Walt in September 1957. The couple lived in Rolla, Missouri, while Walt completed his degree at the Missouri School of Mines. Soon after, they relocated to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where Walt began his career at the Sunray DX Refinery.

Glenda and Walt raised their two daughters, Avis Lynn and Lea Ann, primarily in Tulsa, with a brief period spent in nearby Bixby. In 1968, they were instrumental in the founding of the evangelical movement in Tulsa, where Glenda joyfully devoted her days to teaching Bible study and nurturing the spiritual lives of others.

A lover of history and adventure, Glenda traveled widely-especially throughout the United Kingdom and Europe-collecting memories that she cherished throughout her life.

Above all, Glenda's life was defined by faith, family, and devotion. She leaves behind her beloved husband, Walter; her daughter, Lea Ann McMahon (Brian); seven grandchildren, Maggie Guglielmo, Mary Miller, Cal McMahon (Cathleen), Sam Miller (Nicole), Jack Miller, Frances Yeager (John Paul), and Paige Miller; and six great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, Glen and Edna Parsons, and daughter, Avis Lynn Miller.

Glenda was deeply loved and is already profoundly missed. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now reunited in Heaven with her cherished daughter and resting in the peace of her Savior.