Glenda Alexander Obituary

Glenda Alexander passed away March 1, 2025 in Mesa, Arizona. Glenda Marie Blanco was born June 14, 1938 in Globe, Arizona to Frank and Angelina (Angie) Blanco. She was the second oldest of four children: Norma, Glenda, Frances and Frank Blanco. She is proceeded in death by her husband, Gary Alexander. Gary and Glenda have two daughters, Phyllis, whose daughters are Megan and Cori, and Traci, who has son, Caden and daughter, Ali. Gary had three older children: Glenda, Dennis and Sheila. They collectively had twelve grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. In September of last year Glenda’s first great grand daughter was born and given the name Keithly Marie in her honor.

She was a long-time member of the St. Paul United Methodist Church in Globe and served on several committees. For the past several years, she has resided in Mesa with her daughter, Traci and granddaughter Ali.

Glenda loved music. She played clarinet and enjoyed four years of marching band in high school. She attended Arizona State College at Flagstaff (now Northern Arizona University.) She continued to participate in band. She was also a member of Cardinal Key and Alpha Psi Omega Dramatic Fraternity.

After graduation, she moved to California and taught for the Los Angels School District. She then moved back to Globe and taught for many years at Globe Jr. High and Globe High School. She taught both Drama and English. She sponsored several extra curricular activities throughout her many years of teaching. She co-sponsored Jr. High Student Council, Jr High Honor Society, Jr. High Pom and cheer one year, Jr High class trips, Jr. High sound crew and multi-media group, High school drama and High School Speech and Debate. Many classes of Globe Jr. High students have fond memories of the annual Spring and Christmas programs. These shows were written, directed, choreographed and produced in collaboration with her dear friend, Sue Jones. Glenda and Sue created many innovative programs and experiences for students. After retirement, Glenda continued to positively impact the lives of students through her work with the University of Arizona Extension.

Glenda had many interests including music, photography, sewing, softball, bowling, reading, puzzles and running. She participated in several 5K and 10K runs and won several medals in her age group. One thing she really loved was baseball. She grew up listening to games on the radio then watching the Diamondbacks, and, of course, her grandson, Caden.

Most importantly, she loved her family and went above and beyond for all of her family members. She spoiled everyone, including the dogs in the best way possible. She is remembered for her determination, sense of humor and love. She was the most amazing daughter, sister, teacher, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She will be truly missed.

Services will be held Saturday, March 15 at 10:00 a.m. at the St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Globe.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Family Promise (familypromise.org) or the charitable organization of choice.