James Noble Glenn

COLUMBIA – James “Jim” Noble Glenn, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, affectionately known as “Pop”, passed away in Columbia on Friday, September 6, 2024. Born to Noble and Helen Glenn, Jim was raised in Mineral Wells, Texas, where his strong foundation in faith and community began at the First United Methodist Church.

He studied and played football at Texas Christian University, participating in the 1952 Cotton Bowl game. He was awarded the Grassy Hinton Award by Coach Dutch Meyer and was honored as the most valuable player. He met the TCU Homecoming Queen, Judith Deaton, who became the love of his life, and they married in June 1952. Jim earned a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, followed by a Master's Degree in Education from McMurry College in Abilene, Texas. His early career saw him sharing his passion for education and sports as a teacher and football coach.

His path shifted to economic development when he joined West Texas Utilities, where he helped foster economic growth in the region. In 1969, he was lured away from his beloved Texas and was appointed by Governor Bob Scott as the Director of Economic Development for the State of North Carolina. His contributions to the state’s economic prosperity left an enduring impact that still resonates today.

Jim and Judy relocated to South Carolina to be closer to their daughters and became active members of the Church of the Good Shepherd (Episcopal). Jim enjoyed spending time with family and friends, cooking out, watching football, gardening, exercising, and fishing.

He was predeceased by his parents, Helen and Noble Glenn, and his sister, Marilyn Glenn Proctor. He is survived by his beloved wife of 72 years, Judy; his daughters, Vicki Hardin (Skip) and Suzanne Glenn; granddaughters, Lindsay Kemp (Matt) and Lee Middeke (Aaron); five great-grandchildren, and many friends and colleagues who were fortunate to know him.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the Heart of Hospice and the dedicated caregivers for the compassionate care and unwavering support they provided to both Jim and the family. A special thank you is also extended to his devoted at-home caregivers, Gloria Jones, Loretta Robinson, and Stacia Williams, whose love and care brought immense comfort during this time.

On Friday, September 13, 2024, visitation will be held at 10:00 AM in the Parish Hall at the Church of the Good Shepherd (Episcopal), 1512 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201. After visitation, there will be a private Requiem Mass for the family, followed by burial in the memorial garden.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Good Shepherd Fund, in care of The Church of the Good Shepherd.

Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is overseeing the arrangements.

Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.