Glenda Claudette Byrd Whitson

Glenda Claudette Byrd Whitson, age 79, a beloved mother, grandmother, and sister was born on Tuesday, January 9, 1945, in Yancey County and gained her heavenly home on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at Catawba Valley Medical Center in Catawba County. Glenda left behind a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering thoughtfulness that touched the lives of so many.

As a co-owner of Seaworthy Seating Inc., Glenda was not only dedicated to her work but also to the people around her. Her personality shone through in every interaction; she was always thinking of others, with a special talent for finding just the right gift to brighten someone’s day. Family and friends cherished her kindness and generous spirit, which radiated warmth and positivity. Glenda was beautiful inside and out.

Glenda was a faithful member of Liledoun Baptist Church, where she found community and solace. Her love for the beach was as deep as her love for her family; she delighted in long walks by the shore and the leisurely moments spent relaxing against the gentle ocean breeze. Additionally, she found joy in simple pleasures like doing word searches, a pastime that mirrored her sharp mind and love for challenges.

Her heart was most full when surrounded by her family. Glenda was immensely proud of her daughters, Renee Whitson (Kevin Parsons) and Michelle Brown (Wayne), along with her stepdaughter, Kimberly Sencindiver. As a grandmother, her spirit truly thrived in her relationships with her grandchildren: Stephanie Jowers (Adrian), Anita Brown Pruitt (Conner), and step-grandson, Matthew Sencindiver. Glenda cherished every moment spent with them, filling her days with laughter, love, and the beauty of family togetherness. She also leaves behind a brother, Jerry Byrd (Laney), and sister, Diane Southers (Kevin). After the loss of her husband, her relationship with her sisters-in-law Ruby Letterman and Rita Honeycutt kept her going. 

Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, Glenda is reunited in spirit with those she loved dearly, including her parents, Cornelius "Neal" and Ida Bell Mitchell Byrd, her loving late husband of 53 years, Ray Whitson, and her dear brother, Edward Paul Mitchell. 

A visitation to honor Glenda's life will be held on Monday, December 23, 2024, from 2:00 pm to 2:45 pm at Liledoun Baptist Church in the Township of Taylorsville. Following the visitation, the funeral service will take place at the Liledoun Baptist Church, starting at 3:00 pm. Rev. Jason Payne and Rev. Mark Bumgarner will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Liledoun Baptist Church, 2628 Liledoun Road, Taylorsville, NC 28681 or Samaritan’s Purse in care of the flood victims, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607

In this time of reflection and remembrance, we take comfort in knowing that Glenda’s legacy will live on in the hearts and lives of everyone she touched. She was a light in the lives of many, and her spirit will forever remain a guiding presence for her family and friends.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com