James Wilford Glenn

James “Jim” W. Glenn, a husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, retired Air Force veteran, retired air traffic controller, and former associate of Mr. C’s hardware, passed away on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at home in Colleyville, Texas surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on March 14, 1933 in Trimble (Robinson) Illinois to the late William and Lenora Dixie” Glenn. He was a graduate of Robinson High School. His first job was at the Heath Candy Bar factory. He then attended SIU -Southern Illinois University (1951-1952) before enlisting in the United States Air Force. The Air Force is where Jim started his long career as an air traffic controller as well as being awarded the good conduct medal, UN Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, National Defense Medal, and Airman of the year in 1956. He married Norma Gmeiner on January 20, 1962 in Gettysburg, South Dakota. Jim known as “Jayeye” was truly dedicated to his career in air traffic control, devoting over 37 years of his life to the FAA and even returned as a trainer for two years after retirement. He really enjoyed his 30 years at Mr C’s Ace Hardware where he helped thousands of customers and was a truly loved by the community.

Jim was passionate about woodworking, photography, scuba diving, nature, travel, sports, fishing, bird watching, and listening to his favorite music. He enjoyed a good joke, and would gladly share his wisdom or a story about life with anyone. One could find him at a hardware store buying something to tinker with, watching his favorite shows and movies at home, or looking forward to the next family gathering in hopes of a slice of pie.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, William and Lenora “Dixie” Glenn; sister, Rose Marilyn; brother, Rich Glenn; daughters, Melissa Glenn and Gloria Fuller.

He is survived by his beloved wife of over 63 years, Norma Glenn of Colleyville, Texas; children, Kari Glenn Garrity, Joe M. Gmeiner and wife, Lynn and Brenda Moreland and husband, Steve. Grandchildren, Nicholas Garrity and wife, Angela, Joe R. Gmeiner and wife, Jannet, Jenny DiCerbo and husband, Tom; April Cline and husband, Lanny, and Jamie Hankins and husband, Kevin; as well as nine great grandchildren. .

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or a charity of one’s choice in honor of a truly amazing man.