Ms. Smiley taught English at Westchester High School.
Glenda Craddock Smiley was born on November 9, 1940 in Winnsboro TX and died unexpectedly on March 2, 2009 in Dallas TX. After graduating from high school in Winnsboro in 1959, she earned a BS degree from Texas Christian University in 1963 and double MS degrees from the University of North Texas in 1967.
A gifted educator who inspired her students to achieve excellence, Glenda taught English, first in the Fort Worth ISD at Meachum Middle School and later in the Spring Branch ISD at Westchester High School. She played tennis competitively and volunteered tirelessly at her daughter's schools, but she applied her intellect, insight and enthusiasm to a wide variety of interests, ranging from poetry criticism to spectator sports. Glenda was a dedicated fan of Dallas' professional sports teams. Known as "Glenda from Far North Dallas," she frequently called in to voice her opinions on "The Ticket" sports radio. Most notably, Glenda had a quick smile, razor-sharp wit and an irrepressible, uplifting sense of humor.
She was deeply devoted to her family and friends, and her love illuminated and enriched their lives immeasurably. Her spirit and legacy will live forever in the hearts of everyone who knew her. Glenda was preceded in death by her parents, H. G. and Loye Craddock of Winnsboro.
She is survived by her husband of 38 years, Ron, her daughter and son-in-law, Robin and Bradley Ward, and by her beloved cat, Jake. The family will receive friends on Wednesday March 4th from 6 PM to 8 PM at Restland Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held on March 5th at 12:30 PM in the Wildwood Chapel at Restland Memorial Park. The family asks that donations be made to either the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, spca.org, or Friends of the Dallas Public Library, dallaslibrary friends.org.
Published in Dallas Morning News on March 4, 2009
BIRTH
Winnsboro, Wood County, Texas, USA
DEATH
2 Mar 2009 (aged 68) Dallas, Dallas County, Texas, USA
BURIAL
Restland Memorial Park Dallas, Dallas County, Texas, USA
She was a great teacher and person. We had a lot of fun in her English class, as well as learning a lot. She knew how to relate to and motivate high school kids. Mrs. Smiley was realistic, flexible and down to earth. Really enjoyed having her as a teacher. She will be missed.
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Sherry Ruth Carpenter (Haning) (1972)
Ms. Craddock was a favorite teacher of mine. I am shocked that she is gone.
Karen June Wright (Atchley) (1974)
I remember when she got married! We were so excited for her!John Gordon Poulson (1968)
Wonderful teacher and person, I have sweet memories of her. She was wonderful!
George Allen Cowan (1975)
She was a great teacher and person. We had a lot of fun in her English class, as well as learning a lot. She knew how to relate to and motivate high school kids. Mrs. Smiley was realistic, flexible and down to earth. Really enjoyed having her as a teacher. She will be missed.
George Cowan, Class of '75