Glenda Carol Smith (Phillips)

Glenda Carol Smith (Phillips), a beacon of intelligence, loyalty and love, peacefully passed at her home in Orange, California, on March 13, 2024, with her devoted husband, daughter and granddaughter by her side. Born on November 1, 1942, in Ogden, Utah, Glenda’s vibrant spirit and nurturing presence were a gift to all who knew her throughout her 81 years.

Affectionately nicknamed “La Glenda” by her grandfather, she was the cornerstone of her family, always ensuring that everyone was well taken care of. Glenda’s youth was filled with the lively traditions of her Italian heritage, and she carried this zest for life into every endeavor. A proud graduate of St. Joseph Catholic School, she was known for her academic achievements, her spirited role as a cheerleader and club president, her musical talents as a pianist at school events, and her faithful service playing the organ at church each Sunday.

Glenda’s artistic flair shone brightly in her skill as an accomplished seamstress, creating formal gowns for her mother and was often sought after to create exquisite dresses for brides and bridesmaids. Her precision and attention to detail were second to none, and these qualities beautifully translated into her professional life as well.

In her twenties, Glenda ventured to Southern California, where she would not only build an impressive career but also meet her soulmate, Robert Smith. Glenda and Robert’s love story spanned 44 remarkable years, marked by a 28-year courtship and 16 blissful years of marriage following their union on July 7, 2008, in Santa Ana, California.

Her career in the aerospace industry was nothing short of extraordinary, especially for a woman of her time. Starting as a secretary, Glenda’s intelligence and analytical prowess propelled her to the role of Senior Contracts Manager at McDonnell Douglas. She was a trailblazer, a testament to her sharp mind and tenacious spirit.

Glenda’s passions extended beyond her professional achievements. An active golfer, she reveled in the sport, often traveling with her husband, friends, and family to play on different courses. She cherished her morning routine, which included a few cups of coffee, logic problems, and cryptograms, setting the stage for a day filled with intellectual pursuits and, ideally, a round of golf followed by a delectable pasta dinner, enjoyed with close family and friends.

Known for her iconic jet-black hairstyle, which she wore the same way throughout her life, Glenda’s appearance was as consistent as her wise counsel. She was a treasured confidante, brimming with sage advice and always ready to tackle a problem with her analytical mind.

Glenda’s legacy lives on through her beloved husband, Robert; her daughter, Robyn Price and granddaughter, Alexandra Jackson; stepsons, Kevin and Brian Smith and their families; sister-in-law, Nancy Phillips; and her nieces, Carrie and Erin and their families. Each of them carries a piece of her loving spirit and intellectual curiosity.

Glenda was preceded in death by her mother and father, Glen and Elva Phillips and her brother, Dennis.

To describe Glenda in a few words is to speak of her intelligence, her loving nature, and her analytical mind. She embodied the essence of the well-known quote by Albert Einstein: “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.” Glenda’s ability to adapt, innovate, and care deeply for those around her was the true measure of her remarkable intelligence.

Glenda Carol Smith’s life was a tapestry of love, learning, and leadership. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a guiding light to her family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her story is not one of an ending but a lasting legacy of a life well-lived and well-loved.