Glenda I. Watts' Obituary
Glenda Irene Watts, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 13th, 2025 in Tacoma, Washington at the age of 84 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s.
Born on October 29th, 1940 in Okanogan, Washington to Ellen and Ben Hylton, Glenda was a sister to Ben Hylton and Jim Scott, who preceded her in death. She grew up in Tacoma, WA, attending Edison Elementary, Grey Jr High, and Lincoln High School. Glenda spent her summers in Oregon and helped on the family farm in Tonasket, WA.
On March 6th, 1959 she married the love of her life Jim Watts. Glenda lived many places while Jim served in the Air Force; California, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Florida, Alaska, Maryland, and Guam, finally settling in Tacoma, WA. They were married 60 years when he passed away in October of 2019.
She is survived by two daughters and a son, Dawn, Troy and Traci as well as 6 grandkids and 6 great grandkids, with 1 on the way. Glenda and Jim opened their hearts and home as foster parents, nurturing children with guidance and care.
Though reserved by nature, Glenda found joy in the outdoors — gardening, bike riding and treasure hunting via metal detector with Jim. They shared a love for travel, exploring the country by RV, cruises, and even won a memorable trip to the 2008 Olympics in China. Because of Glenda, her family members got to experience camping in Morton where family would gather to ride ATVs, play horse shoes, fish, swim, celebrate holidays such as Easter egg hunts, and attend the annual jubilee.
A talented seamstress, she sewed quilts and mended clothes for her family. Glenda made sure her children were active in sports, Boy and Girl Scouts, and camps. She encouraged her children to work at a young age. She was a stickler for doing things right and instilled in her children the values of resourcefulness and self-reliance.
With a reliable and steadfast work ethic, she was a cherished colleague. While overseas, Glenda was a volunteer dental assistant. She dedicated 25 years to Bethel High School where she held many positions; security officer, driving instructor, health aide, attendance secretary, and audio-visual coordinator.
Glenda now joins her beloved Jim--the only person on earth who could make her laugh--in eternal rest. Services are pending with Mountain View Funeral Home.
What’s your fondest memory of Glenda?
What’s a lesson you learned from Glenda?
Share a story where Glenda's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Glenda you’ll never forget.
How did Glenda make you smile?