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Obit For Glenda (Sparkman) Ward
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Text Glenda S. Ward (April 14, 1943 - October 27, 2008)

Glenda S. Ward, age 65, of Cassville, Missouri, passed away Monday, October 27, 2008, in her home. She was born April 14, 1943, in Cassville, the daughter of William M. “Bill” and Virginia Ruth (Sparkman) Ward, who preceded her in death.

She is survived by her brother and her two “JOYS”, nephew, and niece, who were more like grandchildren, and many friends.

Glenda earned her high school diploma at Cassville, a B.A. degree from Drury College, an M.A. degree from the University of Arkansas, and additional post-graduate work at the University of Missouri. Her teaching career spanned forty years, working on both the high school and college level. It is estimated she coached or directed more than 2000 students in various speech, theatre, and debate activities. Just as Glenda never let her physical disability deter her from her goals, she instilled the same “I Can” spirit and philosophy in all her “speech kids”. She has a wall of plaques and awards for her achievements, but nothing pleased her more than to hear from a former student that she had been a “help” in their life.

She taught locally in the Cassville, Purdy and Southwest at Washburn School Systems.

She was a member of Cassville First Baptist Church since the early 1950’s and was a member of many speech, theatre, and educational organizations. Glenda was a life-long Democrat, serving several local, district, and state party positions. In recent years, Glenda was most active in Barry County D.A.R.E., Inc., Cassville High School Alumni Association, Scholarship Programs, Bridge Club, and GFWC Silver Leaf Benefit Club.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, October 30, 2008, in Cassville First Baptist Church under direction of Fohn Funeral Home, Cassville. Burial will be in Washburn Prairie Cemetery, Washburn, Missouri.
Research Note: Glenda was a contributor to the Washburn page and added some old photos to the web site.
Newspaper Barry Co. Advertiser
Date Oct. 29, 2008
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Submitted by Phyllis Long