Glenda Marie Jenkins Mahagan spent most of her childhood in Lincoln with her brothers Bill and Don and attended Lincoln High where she was a member of the octet. She later attended Nebraska Wesleyan University, where she majored in education and formed lifelong friendships through the Alpha Gamma Delta sorority. Her warmth, talent, and radiant smile shone brightly when she was named runner-up in the Miss Lincoln pageant after sharing her beautiful singing voice. While working at Gold’s department store, Glenda often waited for her brother, Don, to finish work. Don worked with Larry and introduced the two, beginning a love story that would last a lifetime. Glenda and Larry married on August 29, 1964. Before walking down the aisle, she sang “Because,” based on the poem by Guy D’Hardelot, to Larry from the back of the sanctuary. Years later, their daughter Diane honored that cherished memory by having the same song sung at her own wedding.

After Larry graduated from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and joined the Air Force, the couple moved to Warner Robins, Georgia. There, Glenda once again formed friendships that endured throughout her life, and she and Larry welcomed their first daughter, Laura. The family was later stationed at Offutt Air Force Base and made Bellevue their permanent home. Shortly after returning to Nebraska, they welcomed their second daughter, Diane.

When Laura and Diane reached grade school, Glenda returned to the classroom and began a remarkable 23-year teaching career. She inspired thousands of students and many student teachers, sharing her special love of fourth grade and Nebraska history. Bellevue Public Schools honored Glenda’s positive influence on children with the “Champions for Children” award.

Even after retiring in 2000, Glenda never stopped teaching, encouraging, and uplifting those around her. Her faith was central to her life. She served on several church committees, but singing in the choir brought her particular joy and allowed her to celebrate her love for her church and for Jesus. She continued until diminished eyesight made reading the small print in low light too difficult. Her family lovingly remembers her seated at the piano at home, playing as she practiced choir music.

Glenda’s beautiful voice warmed the hearts of all who heard it, just as her generous spirit touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. She believed deeply in helping others, and she gave her whole heart to her family, her students, her faith, and her community.

In 2001, Glenda welcomed her first grandchild, Matthew, who brought immeasurable love and pride into her life. She cared for Matt several days each week as he grew, filling their time together with special traditions and creating memories that he and the entire family will always treasure.

As Laura’s and Diane’s families grew, Glenda joyfully welcomed each new addition. Jonus, Jackson, K.J., and her other great-grandchildren brought even more love and happiness into her life. She treasured the special bond she shared with every member of her growing family.

Glenda delighted in two favorite pastimes: football and Walt Disney World. She would plan events around football games no matter which teams were playing, though the Kansas City Chiefs held a special place in her heart. After Matthew was born, Glenda and Larry joined the Walt Disney World Vacation Club and made at least 68 visits to Walt Disney World, including Disney cruises. Even as they grew older, they continued traveling with friends and treasured every magical moment.

Glenda passed with her beloved family gathered at her bedside. Her final day was filled with the people and milestones she cherished most as the family celebrated her 62nd wedding anniversary with Larry, Larry’s birthday, and Matthew’s birthday together. It was a fitting reflection of a life rooted in love, family, and gratitude.

“Because” – Guy D’Hardelot

Because you come to me with naught save love,

And hold my hand and lift mine eyes above,

A wider world of hope and joy I see,

Because you come to me.

Because you speak to me in accents sweet,

I find the roses walking round my feet,

And I am led through tears and joy to thee,

Because you speak to me.

Because God made thee mine,

I’ll cherish thee

Through light and darkness,

Through all time to be,

And pray His love may make our love divine,

Because God made thee mine

Glenda is survived by her husband of 62 years Larry; daughters Laura Meston (Chris), Diane Arthur (Russ); grandson Matthew Thompson; brother William “Bill” Jenkins (Joyce); sister-in-law Donnette Jenkins.

She was preceded in death by her parents Glen & Hazel Jenkins; brother Don Jenkins.

Visitation: Friday, September 11, 2026, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m., followed by

Memorial Service at 10:30 a.m., both at St. James United Methodist Church, Franklin Campus, 1501 Franklin Street, Bellevue, NE 68005.

To view a live broadcast of the service, please click on the “Live Cast” option in the menu.

Place of Rest: Friday, September 11, 2026, 12:30 p.m., Omaha National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. James United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall Renovation / www.stjamesbellevue.com or Bellevue Food Pantry / www.bellevuepantry.org.