Glenda Joy Deloya

Glenda Joy Deloya

Glenda Joy Deloya spent 81 years teaching her family many life lessons. Born in Cleburne to Lewis & Donnie Hall, Glenda grew up and started her life with Donald Smith. Their marriage was struck with tragedy after the birth of their two daughters, Debra and Kimberly. Donald was unexpectedly killed working to provide for his family. Glenda was heartbroken, her dreams of a family and happiness cut short. She began to decide how she would carry on and provide for their children.

Glenda raised her daughters to the best of her ability. She obtained her cosmetology license and built her career into a stable income and was happy to be able to show her daughters that as a woman it was possible to pick yourself up and make a way for yourself.

Once her daughters grew up and were married, grandchildren brought joy to her life. She became known as Nanny. Nanny took a very big interest in her grandchildren and their upbringing. She instilled manners, requested family meals and quality time together especially around the holidays, Christmas was her favorite. Her Christmas tree was always a sight to behold. Presents covered half the floor for everyone.

Nanny traveled extensively, loving tropical locations the best. She also loved her home to be a place of comfort and enjoyment for her family. Many cookouts were shared with swimming and catching up with everyone’s life. After the grandchildren, came the biggest joy in nannie’s life, the great grandchildren. Two little girls kept nanny busy and full of laughter. She involved the girls in her Church of Christ at Westhill Church of Christ, including hosting card games in her home and vacation bible school. The girls were dazzled by nannie’s love of all things sparkly. Her closet was a little girl dream for dress up.

Although her health issues came to the forefront this last year, Nanny faced each one head-on with class and dignity. Her heart broke on April 25, 2017, when her daughter was taken to heaven after a very aggressive form of leukemia. Nanny never was the same, her health issues compounded and she became occupied with making sure her life was in order. As a family we feel confident in the belief that nanny is finally at peace with her parents, husband, savior and daughter. The family will continue her traditions of togetherness.

Glenda has left her memories to be cherished by her daughter, Debra Smith Hale; grandchildren, Krystalle Mayfield (Chris), Lezlie Kurts (Max), Donald Hawkins (Destre) and Celeste Hawkins; great grandchildren, Caleb, Jeska, Alissa, Astrid; Lori, her beloved canine; companions, Maulty and Manuelito.    
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Memorial service will be 1:30 p.m. Saturday, October 28, 2017 at Westhill Church of Christ of Cleburne.

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