of Mountain Home, AR
July 20, 1960 - June 30, 2024
Glenda Diane Small, 63, of Mountain Home, Arkansas passed away on June 30th, 2024 after a long, hard battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her loving family at her home.
Glenda, the daughter of Billy Joe Kankey and the late Murrell Killian Kankey, was born on July 20, 1960 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Glenda grew up in Pineville, Arkansas where she attended school and went on to graduate from Calico Rock High School in 1978. After graduating from the University of Arkansas, she began a career in education where she would spend 29 years of her life devoting herself to ''her kids''. Even though she retired professionally, she continued her teaching career through photography by capturing numerous northern Arkansas sporting or special events. She was Mountain Home Educator of the Year in 2014, was inducted as a member of the 2018 Hall of Honor and was set to be inducted into the MHHS Athletic Hall of Fame in Fall 2024. She was a proud member of the First Baptist Church in Mountain Home.
In 1984, Glenda moved to Mountain Home to begin her first year as a teacher. She met a handsome young man through mutual friends and on October 25th, 1986, she married the love of her life, Terry Allen Small. They enjoyed 37 years together. Glenda was a devoted and loving wife, a proud and supportive mother and a great friend to many, but above all things, she was the proudest, most adoring and encouraging Nana on this earth. She always had a sweet smile when you saw her, which was usually followed by a hug with some type of encouraging words. She will be missed more than words can say but will live in our hearts and memories forever.
Glenda is survived by her husband, Terry of the home; one daughter, Julie Gonten (Philip); father, Bill Kankey; brother, Joe Kankey (Fran); her twin sister, Brenda (Wes) Nichols; three brothers-in-law, David Small (Tammy); Doug Small (Jami) and Mike Small; one grandchild, Jade Brooklyn Small and two step-grandchildren, Kennedy Gonten and Lincoln Gonten. She had several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews whom she loved dearly. She is also survived by a host of other relatives and many good friends.
She is preceded in death by her mother, Murrell Kankey; her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Melvin and Patsy Small and her niece, Laiken Small.
Visitation will be on Friday, July 5th from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Mountain Home.
Funeral services will be on Saturday, July 6th at 2:00 pm, at First Baptist Church in Mountain Home with Pastor Tad Rogers officiating. Burial will be at Hand Cemetery in Jordan, Arkansas.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that a donation be made to the Glenda Small Memorial Fund at Anstaff Bank for the benefit of young people throughout northern Arkansas.
Pallbearers: Ryan Small, Dustin Small, Daxtyn Small, Connor Nichols, Jared Nichols and Coach Bill Hughes
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68 Condolence(s)
April D
Saturday, August 17, 2024
To the family of Glenda Small, I was sorry to read of your loss and wanted to offer my condolences. A hope that has brought comfort to many can be found in God’s Word the Bible. There we learn that God has the ability to bring our dead loved ones back to life here on earth. (Acts 24:15) Until that appointed time they are in His memory. Please be assured that He understands your grief and can give you the comfort you need to get through your trials.
U.Z. Small
Saturday, July 20, 2024
So sorry Terry, to learn about Glenda's death. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Suzanne Schmoker Sutherland
Monday, July 8, 2024
Glenda was one of the finest people and best teachers I have ever known. She was kind, caring, and loving to all, and I feel blessed to have called her my friend. I sincerely sympathize with her family and all who knew and loved her.
Lisa Riggs
Monday, July 8, 2024
RIP Mrs. Small. you were a wonderful person. You taught my son how to behave himself at school. He learned so much from you. I have such good memories of you. So patient & kind. You rocked.
Samantha Hanna
Sunday, July 7, 2024
Mrs. Small was the most influential teacher. She shaped my furniture in more ways than one. I was so sad to learn of her cancer battle. And my heart broke when I heard the news that she had lost that battle. My condolences for everyone who loved her. This world just became a bit darker without her in it.
Carolyn Uhlenberg
Saturday, July 6, 2024
I'm sorry for your family's loss my heart and prayers are with you
Ginette Richard
Saturday, July 6, 2024
Im so sorry for your loss she was such a great person she taught my daughter in 2nd grade when we moved to M H loved it there but came back home to Mass she made a big inpack in our lives great person loving and very caring keeped intouch with her on Facebook through the years fly high my friend no more suffering love you
Kathy Williams
Saturday, July 6, 2024
I’m crushed……but if my Glenda was ever so happy…..she was today! Julie took the reins and has completed everything her mom wanted.. Be a Glenda Small. Love you and Terry so much…..praying…..
Dennis Hughes
Saturday, July 6, 2024
Julie and Terry, Rita and I are so sorry for your loss.
Kathy Wells Hodge
Friday, July 5, 2024
Sending prayers and healing for the family
Fran Kemp
Friday, July 5, 2024
Glenda had a unique gift of making every single person she interacted with feel loved and special. This affection absolutely came from her heart and soul. I was blessed to have had her friendship for most of my life. We will miss her so much.
Martina
Friday, July 5, 2024
You will be so very missed. I loved talking with you on Facebook. I will definitely miss our chats. Love and hugs to your family,friends. Until we meet again. I love you Mrs.Small
Mary Gillihan Bishop
Friday, July 5, 2024
So thankful I was able to meet and know Glenda, she was always so patient and kind. My prayers to all the family. May God bless your days with happy memories.
Elise Strain
Thursday, July 4, 2024
Glenda will be terribly missed. She was always so happy and had a smile for everyone. I'm so very sorry for everyone's loss.
Bill Atkinson
Thursday, July 4, 2024
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Glenda's kindness and warmth toward alll will always be remembered.
Jake Beatty
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Terry and family …..I’m am so terribly sorry for your loss….she was such a sweet lady…..god bless you and your family in this time of loss. I am so terribly sorry.
Danielle Fusco Diemer
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Mrs. Small was an icon in Mountain Home education. She was one of those teachers who had a positive lasting impression on all the students, even if they weren’t in her class. My thoughts are with Julie and the family in their time of grief.
Shirla Hill
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
She was an amazing teacher, such a positive roll model. Prayers to all of the families.
Glen and Dasharma Clark
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Terry, Julie and family,
Please know we are thinking and praying for you during this difficult time. Much love sent your way.
Linda Smith
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Glenda was absolutely one of the most amazing teachers I have ever known. Her smile was contagious and she never forgot a student or a parent. My condolences to her family as they navigate through these hard times.
Geneva Reves
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
What a dear teacher she was that truly loved and cared for her kids. She taught my grandchildren and so saddened for her family.
Rest in peace dear lady.
Betty Lumbert
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
My thoughts and prayers are with all of the Small family! Glenda was so kind and considerate with everyone that she met. She always made you feel special. Heaven gained a very special lady!
Bob & Jena Moody
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
We are so sorry to hear of Glenda’s passing. She was a wonderful teacher to our sons and such a kind person. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Karla Kent
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Glenda was an absolutely beautiful person inside and out. I am so sad that she had to suffer with this terrible disease and thankful she now has reached her special place in Heaven. My prayers for comfort and peace for all the family. I know no words can take away your heartache, just know God has you wrapped in his arms and will not leave your sides.
Carol Copeland
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Where do I even begin
There was no one like Glenda Small... no one!
The very BEST of everything... daughter, sister, wife, mother, Nana, teacher, supporter, friend of nearly 35 years. She was such a Blessing to so many.
My heart is shattered, but I felt her physical pain for these past three years. God called her to her Eternal Home... now pain free and doing her special work in Heaven.
I can only imagine...
Terry, Julie, Jade, and your entire family, my thoughts and my prayers are with each of you almost constantly.
I am all too familiar with the cancer journey that you've been on with her. She Always told me about your great caregiving for her. Glenda had many Loves in her life, but none like you Terry, Julie, and Jade. She would do anything for you!! Her love knew no limits and she was just soo very proud of each of you.
Julie, when you were little your mom took such pride dressing you and doing your beautiful hair, and placing those adorable bows on you...I always complimented your outfits, as your precious mother would just stand there beaming with such love and pride. And then she was able to carry on that tradition as Nana to her precious little angel Jade. I loved each and every photo and could still see that true love and joy in Glenda's eyes. Her two Beautiful girls
Our friendship began when we moved to Mtn. Home in 1990. She was Craigan's 1st grade teacher AND 2nd grade teacher!! We taught together for many many years. Those truly were The Good Ole Days! We shared so much together! I'll treasure our memories forever... until we meet again on those Streets of Gold, if the Good Lord sees that that is my Eternal Home, as well.
What a reunion and a True Blessing that will be
And as difficult as it is for us now , we know that Glenda fulfilled her purpose here on this earth. Not many get to be Angels on earth AND in Heaven, but Glenda does and for that I feel much comfort.
God Bless you Terry and Julie, and Jade... and All of her sweet family. My thoughts and my prayers are with each of you.
With Love,
Carol Copeland
Brenda Haskins
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Glenda was a genuine, positive, loving and kind person. As a teacher, she was devoted to all of the students who passed through her classroom over the years. My son was fortunate to have her when she was teaching at Pinkston. That year, there was a group of her boys playing basketball together and participating in a tournament in Conway. Glenda surprised them by driving to Conway to support and cheer them on. Glenda was loved by so many and will long be remembered lovingly for all the seeds of inspiration and encouragement that she scattered so effortlessly. To know Glenda was to love her. Prayers for comfort and strength for her family.
Jeep and Melba Chick
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Glenda was such a precious lady. She always wore a smile. She will be missed, however we know she is no longer suffering. We loved her and her family!
Mike, Becky, & Matt Robbins
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of this sweet lady. She captured so may wonderful baseball memories of our baseball family. She will be missed by so many and her memory will live on in the photos that she took.
Lacy Hollingsworth Price
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Mrs. Small, how lucky I am to have known you. You were one of my “school moms,” and one of my biggest supporters in life. There will never be another “Mrs. Small.” Sending love and prayers.
Penne Wooldridge
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
The Wooldridge family is so sorry and sad for all the family and friends.
Kelley Eiden
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
I was so sorry to hear the passing of Glenda. She was a kind and wonderful person to be around, always so loving. She was teacher to my kids and we had kid same age so I spent a lot of time together over the years. My heart goes out to her family and I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.
Jeanette woodcock
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Sorry for the family's loss, praying for the family.
Steve Kazemi
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Glenda was one of my elder cousins. She always had great energy and grace. It is sad when such a light is lost.
Wade and Melanie Britt
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
We are very sorry to hear of Glenda's passing. She was a wonderful person, gracious and kind to all. Her love of teaching and showed through year after year. We have great pictures of Ethan and Jerrad on the football field because of her. She touched so many lives in a positive way. She will be greatly missed. Terry, you and your family are in our prayers.
Karen Maupin
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Glenda was such a precious person and she will be dearly missed! She was a blessing to so many. I pray for God to bring comfort and strength to the family she loved so very much.
Danny Holmes
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Terry ! So very sorry for your loss my friend. I know how you’re feeling right now . With the help of the good man above and friends you can make it. If you ever need to talk just call ! One thing for sure ! We will meet again one day . Love ya brother!
Shirley Best
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Joe, Fran and family I am sorry for the loss of your precious sister. Know you are surrounded in love and prayers.
Jo Veta Jones
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
I am so very sorry for your loss and will be praying for the family and especially for you,Terry
Kim Mason
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Such a Beautiful Person that will be missed by all who loved & knew her.
Sincere condolences to her Family & Friends. Glenda you are @ Peace now
Watching over us all in the Arms of our Lord & Savior
Bethany Dunegan
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time!
Colleen McCracken
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
I am so very sorry for your loss. Glenda was such a kind and loving person. It was an honor to have her for a friend. Sending love and prayers to you all
Mike and Lisa Mason
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Glenda will be missed. She was a very giving, selfless person. She had a quiet strength about her that is to be admired. Her family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Chris Martinez
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Glenda was a shining light to everyone. I will truly miss this sweet lady and pray for her sweet family.
Carolyn Bone
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Terry and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you now as Glenda sits at the throne of God. May God hold you forever gently in His hands until you meet again in Heaven.
Lindsay Hollingsworth Lockwood
Monday, July 1, 2024
Oh how Mrs. Glenda will be missed. I have such fond memories of Dog Patch travels, Julie’s birthday parties, NWH afternoons, church, and many more. Anything that was big in my life, Mrs. Glenda was a part of it. What a wonderful friend she was to my mom and our family. Sending all of our love and prayers. What a legacy she left.
-the Lockwoods
Debbie Atkinson
Monday, July 1, 2024
I am so sorry for your loss. I know you are broken hearted but take comfort in all the kind words and precious memories from people that loved her. Glenda was a cherished friend, known for her kindness, warmth, and unwavering support of Bomber sports. She touched many lives with her generous spirit and infectious smile. Though Glenda has left us too soon, her pain is gone. She fought a brave fight. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. The memories of her on the sidelines with her camera and sweet spirit will remain always. I will think of you at every game. I was always scanning the sidelines to wave at you from the press box. I will remember our conversations, your positive perspective and kind heart even in the worst of circumstances. You were my inspiration. Rest in peace, dear friend. Max is waiting to give you a really big hug.
Mike Breton
Monday, July 1, 2024
What a loss. Glenda shone as a teacher and a role model for many little girls.
Her diligence and cooperation with her peers and administrators were traits that elevated her to the honors and recognition she so richly deserved.
I just loved her consistently positive attitude, sweet smiles, and laughter.
Boyce Rorie
Monday, July 1, 2024
It was a pleasure working with Glenda when we were both math teachers at Pinkston Middle School. Not only was she well organized in the content she taught, she was also gifted with her classroom management skills. When I learned I had Multiple Myeloma cancer in 2021, she quickly became a great Prayer Warrior for me with routine texts to see how I was doing. Terry, Julie, and Jade...be assured that Pat and I will continue to pray for you during this difficult healing time.
Melody killebrew
Monday, July 1, 2024
My heart breaks for you all. I pray that you find comfort in knowing that she's wrapped in God's loving g arms. My prayers for all.
Kathy Ducker
Monday, July 1, 2024
When I think of Glenda, I see a beautiful smile! She was a light in every room she entered. She was such a great teacher, friend, coworker, mother, sister, daughter and friend. Glenda will be missed by all!
Butch Gandy
Monday, July 1, 2024
God puts people in places that are role models of what He wants us to be, how He wants us to treat others and how He wants us to witness our faith in every day life. She served her Lord well as a Christian that somehow smiled through every adversity she faced. So Blessed our family met this Godly Woman that molded more than my children...she molded a community. Your gentle hug and radiant smile will be missed by so many.
Melissa Swink
Monday, July 1, 2024
I am blessed to have known and been friends with this beautiful lady. We went to high school together but I didn’t get to know her well til 2019. Glenda was a kind and compassionate soul and will be missed by so many. God has plans for this angel.
Eloise Dwyer
Monday, July 1, 2024
Glenda was a sweet,caring, and giving teacher. I enjoyed seeing her with her kids at NWH. My deepest sympathy goes to her family. May God bless them.
Kathy Gonten
Monday, July 1, 2024
Glenda was such a sweet, kind-hearted person! I loved getting to know her better when my son, Philip, and Julie became engaged and then married! She was ecstatic to help plan and see her daughter get married! She beamed, watching the wedding!
Glenda was a beautiful representation of a Godly woman. I am blessed to have known her!
Jackie R Bolt
Monday, July 1, 2024
Glenda was such a kind, loving, and gracious person. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. She genuinely loved teaching, and she gave an enormous amount to time and effort to better the lives of her students and coworkers. She generously loved and supported Jake and Nicole throughout our many years in Mtn Home, and she always took time to send notes, pictures, and words of encouragement to all of us. We are grateful for her. Her legacy will live on through the thousands of students she taught and mentored as well as through her precious family. Our prayers are with you, Terry, Julie, and Jade. She made us all better people, and she will be incredibly missed. Rest peacefully, sweet friend.
Karen Fouts
Monday, July 1, 2024
Our Prayers and much love are sent to the family. Glenda will be greatly missed.
Love,
Steve and Karen
Betty Teague
Monday, July 1, 2024
So sorry Terry and family prayers for comfort.
Joann Farmer Montgomery
Monday, July 1, 2024
I am so sorry about the loss of Glenda. She has always been such a sweet, friendly person.
I have heard so many positive things about her as a teacher over the years. All the family
is in my thoughts and prayers.
Chuck and Kim Hancock
Monday, July 1, 2024
Glenda was a beautiful person always thinking of others first, she will dearly be missed by all who knew her. Our family was blessed to have her teach two of our children and what a great teacher she was. Heaven has certainly gained another angel and because of her deep faith she is in the the best place she's ever been. Terry, Julie, Jade our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Margaret Mason
Monday, July 1, 2024
Glenda's physical presence is no longer with us; however the positive influence and beauty and love that she brought to us every day that she lived will continue through countless generations.
Patty Markowski
Sunday, June 30, 2024
I loved Glenda. Always a class act that all kids and teachers loved and admired. Will miss her. She always made me smile when I saw her. Teaching with her at Nelson Wilkes was a blessing. Fly high Glenda and know that you were amazing. My heart goes out to all of your family. Love, Patty
Nancy Russell
Sunday, June 30, 2024
I’m praying for your loss. Glenda was a wonderful person that was always a positive influence in so many lives. It was an honor to know her and to work with her at NWH.
Debra Haberman Bell
Sunday, June 30, 2024
In meeting Glenda, I was impressed with her Joy and the love she had for Terry. Sending you strength today and peace in all the days ahead. God bless
Debra Haberman Bell
Sunday, June 30, 2024
In meeting Glenda, I was impressed with her Joy and the love she had for Terry. Sending you strength today and peace in all the days ahead. God bless
Ellen Studnar
Sunday, June 30, 2024
Words can not begin to say how much Glenda will be missed.
She wrote me the loveliest note last year when my Son passed.
Praying for all of You.
Tally Eddings
Sunday, June 30, 2024
So thankful I was able to know Glenda. She was such a sweet and thoughtful person. Praying for her family during this time.
Toni Fisher
Sunday, June 30, 2024
Prayers for family this wonder person left behind. My daughter Olivia was privileged to have had her for just a year and I volunteered for her for several years. She was a wonderful teacher and person and am honored to have been around her to soak up her caring love for children.
Linda Singleton
Sunday, June 30, 2024
So sorry!!! She was so nice and she was an amazing Teacher. Prayers