Glenda Sue Parker

Glenda Sue Parker—beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend—passed away on March 10, 2026, after a life beautifully defined by unwavering faith, deep devotion to family, and joyful service to others.

Glenda Sue (Crowl) Parker was born on August 22, 1942, in Kansas City, Kansas, to Glenn Lester Crowl and Sarah Helen (Ragar) Crowl. She was later joined by her younger siblings, Judith (Judy) and Glenn Jr., and the family eventually moved to San Diego, California, where Glenda and her siblings were raised. At an early age, Glenda heard the good news of God’s great love and in response, gave her life to Christ, beginning a lifelong commitment to lovingly serve God and others.

Even as a young girl, Glenda’s vibrant personality shone brightly. She loved creative writing and art and was active in Girl Scouts and her church community. She attended Helix High School, graduating in 1960, where she was a leader in Girls League, Youth for Christ, and Bible Club. Known for her vivacious spirit, kindness, and ever-present smile, she was honored to be chosen as a candidate for Miss Campus.

After high school, Glenda pursued higher education while working full-time to support herself – an early reflection of the strong work ethic that would characterize her entire life. Through determination and scholarships, she attended Azusa Pacific College, Pasadena Nazarene College (now Point Loma Nazarene University), and San Diego State University. A natural leader with a heart for people, she remained actively involved in Youth for Christ, Youth on a Mission, and the young adult community of College Avenue Baptist Church.

In 1963, at the age of 20, Glenda met the love of her life, James (Jim) Parker, a young Navy officer stationed in San Diego. They met at College Avenue, quickly fell in love, and married within six months, beginning a devoted lifelong love that spanned more than 62 years. Glenda was a beautiful bride, inside and out. Jim would often say his life began the day they married. When asked the secret to a long and happy marriage, Glenda joyfully shared that it was built on a firm foundation of faith in God and a commitment to living unselfishly, each partner giving 100 percent. Their love for one another only deepened with time and knew no bounds.

As a Navy family, Jim and Glenda spent their early married years serving their country while stationed around the world. They were stationed in Illinois, where their son Kevin was born; Japan, where their son Timothy (Tim) arrived; and the Bay Area in California, where their daughter Kristen was welcomed. With three young children under the age of five, they were stationed in Taiwan for two years before ultimately returning to San Diego, where they established their home of over 50 years in Fletcher Hills. Glenda formed many special and enduring friendships during these years of extraordinary adventures abroad.

Glenda was a loving mother who poured her heart, faith, and energy into raising her children and sought to guide them with wisdom and encourage each one in their own unique gifts. She embraced her role as a Navy officer’s wife with grace and purpose. She was actively involved in the Officers’ Wives Club, led Bible studies, hosted Good News Clubs, and served as President of Protestant Women of the Chapel. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her years of raising a family, ministry, and service.

After returning to San Diego, Glenda became a devoted member of Shadow Mountain Community Church for 54 years. She shared God’s love through leading Pioneer Girls and Vacation Bible School, hosting small groups and Bible studies, serving on class committees, and supporting missionaries around the globe.

Glenda worked at Shadow Mountain Community Church for 27 years, first as the receptionist and later for 21 years as Administrative Assistant to Pastor David Jeremiah. In this role, she faithfully supported a ministry she loved, helping to share the message of hope and God’s love with countless people. She considered it a great privilege to serve in this way, gave tirelessly of herself, and gained dear lifelong friendships through her many years of involvement at Shadow Mountain.

In retirement, Glenda and Jim enjoyed traveling the world together, creating cherished memories through their many adventures. Glenda continued to invest in her growing family and offered encouragement and kindness to those she met along life’s way. Her insight and counsel, valued by friends and family, were nurtured by her rich life experience, extraordinary common sense, and God-given wisdom. She was a loving and constant presence in the lives of her children and grandchildren, a beloved “Grammy,” faithfully attending countless activities, hosting celebrations, and always showing up with enthusiasm, pride, and unwavering support. Glenda deeply treasured her family, calling out the best in each of them, and continuously lifting them up in prayer.

Elegant and gracious, Glenda radiated joy, energy, understanding, and warmth. She had a rare gift for hospitality and organization, delighting in planning gatherings, celebrating others, and opening her home to friends, neighbors, and family. For 25 years, she and Jim hosted a beloved Christmas Open House, inviting many to celebrate the joy of the season together. She valued others and loved sharing life, laughter, cares, and prayer over a cup of tea, often hosting beautiful Victorian tea parties in her warm and welcoming home. She especially treasured times spent with her dear sister and took great joy in hosting an annual "Cousins’ Tea" for her extended family.

Glenda is survived by her devoted husband, Jim Parker; her sister Judy (Bob) Cohrs; her brother Glenn (Jasmine) Crowl; her children Kevin (Barb), Tim (Kyong), and Kristen (Mike); and her cherished grandchildren Jimmy, Jared (Rachel), Paloma (Chase), Nicholas, Madeleine (Noah), and Colby, along with beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and their families.

Glenda loved deeply and lived faithfully. She devoted her life to serving God and others, intentionally creating spaces and opportunities where people felt welcomed, encouraged, and loved. She rejoiced in God’s faithfulness throughout every chapter of her life and leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, hope, and joy. Her impact lives on in the family she adored and the many lives she touched.

A Celebration of Life is planned for May 9, at 10:00 a.m. at Shadow Mountain Community Church, 2100 Greenfield Drive, El Cajon, CA 92019. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be available via livestream at https:\\memorial.shadowmountain.org.