Glenna and Dave became our friends around 5 years ago when I first met Glenna through our shared faith and interests. Our friendship soon involved our husbands Dave and Matthew. We have all ministered to each other as the Lord led, throughout. I am certain we received more than we gave.

I have been reflecting much in recent weeks about the nature of my friendship with Glenna. I best describe her as a “Titus 2 friend”. Through our daily messaging, and fairly regular calls we have encouraged one another: but Glenna has helped me to love my husband and children along the lines of the calling in Titus 2:3-5. In doing so, Glenna has had far more reach in her ministry of friendship  than either of us might have imagined. Perhaps her final gift to our family without either of us knowing, was her encouragement and gentle mentoring of me as I navigate my firstborn meeting his likely future wife, and talking me off all the appropriate ledges as I grapple with a fast paced international internet originated relationship that very quickly became a “meet the parents”. Glenna did Anna and Ben a great service in explaining to me some of the finer points of American culture never before known about in our home. Just one example of Glenna helping me love my children better.

The biggest gift Glenna (and Dave before he went to glory) gave to us was their support and love during our biggest challenge in our lives so far: the complex PTSD of ministry trauma - that threatened our family’s future. The unwavering support, 100% belief in us when other friends crumpled or stopped messaging and calling. I know there is more to their knowledge, wisdom and experience than we will ever know. Romans 8:28.

Glenna wrote this in her card to us after Dave’s passing:

“Thanks too for your friendship: for being comforting & yet willing to say the hard things when they need to be said”.

She also said, of Dave’s journey: “I know this cancer road and and the road that follows would be much more difficult without you both. Thanks so much for being my friend”.

Right back atcha Glenna!! You were willing to say the hard things and give love in friendship unconditionally. Our ministry journey so far would have been much more difficult without you - and the work the Lord has done through you.

We will not know this side of Heaven what Glenna’s full legacy has been. I am certain the Lord is still working his purposes out through what she has done for Him. 

Our deepest condolences to Glenna’s dear family. I have only shared a brief window in your lives, and I knew her to be so proud of you and thankful for you. We continue to pray for you all. 

To Glenna's beautiful family, especially Alyssa, Aaron, their spouses and kids.

Glenna was beautiful inside and out. I will remember her in the good times with so much faith, laughter and love. The blessings of David, the kids, grandsons and family. The tough times, she stood strong in faith,  courage and still humor and love. We will miss her so very much and will keep dear Glenna & David in our prayers. Our deepest sympathies.

We will forever be grateful to Glenna and David for bringing their wonderful daughter Alyssa into our family. 

As we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus this weekend, so will we celebrate Glenna and David reuniting in the presence of our Lord and Savior.  May they both rest in beautiful peace for an eternity.