Glenna Whitaker Jones passed away April 23, 2026. She was born on June 16, 1942, in the close-knit community of Butner, OK to Jud and Bertha Whitaker.
Glenna was a beacon of scholastic achievement from a young age, proudly graduating as valedictorian from Butner High School in 1960. 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 Mel's love story began when they were only 14 and 15 years old, marrying on Feb. 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 was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings: Eugene Whitaker, Marie Lively, Joy Joseph, Leo Whitaker, Lois Wilson; her son Rocky Dean Jones; and grandson Ryan Dale Snider-Jones.
Services will be held on May 1 at 10 am at Fairview Baptist Church, 48502 Ok-3E, Earlsboro, Ok. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Wewoka, Ok.
