Glenna Whitaker Jones

In loving memory of Glenna Whitaker Jones, who left a legacy of compassion, resilience, and unwavering dedication to those around her. Born on June 16, 1942, in the close-knit community of Butner, Oklahoma, Glenna was the beloved daughter of Jud and Bertha Whitaker. She was welcomed into the world by parents who instilled in her the values of kindness and service which she carried throughout her life.

Glenna was a beacon of scholastic achievement from a young age, proudly graduating as valedictorian from Butner High School in 1960. Her pursuit of education was relentless, achieving milestones that not only fulfilled her own dreams but also set an example for her family and community. She was the first in her family to graduate from college, earning a Bachelor of Science in Human Services from the University of Phoenix in 2008, followed by a Master of Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma in 2011.

Her career was as varied and vibrant as her spirit. Glenna’s professional journey took her through significant roles at Mechanics Bank, American National Bank, bookkeeper and co-owner of the family business, Jones Drywall and Supply and Shawnee Insulation, the Shawnee Housing Authority, Executive Director of the Native American Center of Recovery, grant writer for the Shawnee Absentee Tribe, contracted with the Federal Government to read and write Federal Grants. Glenna’s dedication extended to her role as a Certified Criminal Justice Specialist with the National Association of Forensic Counselors, where she served diligently from 1996 to 2022.

Glenna and Mels love story began when they were only 14 & 15 years old, marrying on February 2, 1960, when they vowed to build a life together. Their union was blessed with three children: Rocky Dean Jones, Kenneth Eugene Jones and Kim LaNiece Jones (White). Also, Kim’s husband James Molloy. As a nurturing mother and doting grandmother, Glenna’s life was enriched by her grandchildren Chase Snider-Jones (wife Ashley), Ryan Snider-Jones, Taryn Rose (husband) Garrett and Taylor Neal (husband) Donovon. Great-grandchildren Kayden, Baylor, Brecken, Bentley, Dakota, Deondre, and Sariah. Though she faced the heartache of losing her son Rocky and grandson Ryan, her steadfast love and strength remained a guiding light for her family.

Glenna’s heart was as expansive as her achievements. Her empathetic nature led her to dedicate her life to helping those less fortunate, especially those in need of housing and battling substance abuse. Her involvement in numerous organizations, including the Business and Professional Women’s Club, the Elks Club, as well as her dedication to her faith community at Fairview Baptist Church, underscored her commitment to service.

Preceded in death by her parents, Jud and Bertha Whitaker, her siblings Eugene Whitaker, Marie Lively, Joy Joseph, Leo Whitaker, Lois Wilson, her son Rocky Dean Jones, and grandson Ryan Dale Snider-Jones. Glenna joins them in eternal peace, leaving behind a tapestry of memories woven with love, perseverance, and an indomitable spirit.

Glenna’s family invites all who were touched by her warmth and generosity to celebrate her life and legacy. Her memory will forever be cherished by her husband Mel, her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews and countless friends and colleagues. Though Glenna has journeyed beyond this life, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know her.