Carol Elaine Glidewell

Carol Elaine Glidewell, 78, of Fort Smith, passed away peacefully on January 8th, 2026, surrounded by her family. She leaves behind a legacy of leadership, generosity, adventure, and unforgettable holiday décor.

Carol was born on December 25, 1947, in Little Rock, Arkansas to Brigadier General Edward “Bud” Schneider and Elaine Bemberg Schneider. When Carol was three years old, her family moved to Alaska while her father continued his service with the United States Air Force. They later returned to Fort Smith, where he assumed command of the 188th Tactical Reconnaissance Group with the Air National Guard of Arkansas. Carol would spend her life in Fort Smith building deep roots within her family, friends, and the community.

Carol graduated from Southside High School in 1966. That same year marked the beginning of her sixty year love story. On Senior Day at Six Shooter Marina on Lake Tenkiller, Carol and a boatload of girlfriends chased down a green cabin cruiser so its owner, Jim Glidewell, could take them skiing. Carol “accidentally” left her hairbrush on his boat to ensure she would see him again. Jim returned that brush and they remained inseparable ever since. Marrying in 1967, they raised three beautiful children and opened their home to countless others. She was a true matriarch.

A woman known for her strong will and vibrant personality. Carol was a legendary hostess who had a passion for animals, entertainment, and travel. She lived on The Ranch with her dogs, cats, and horses and became deeply involved in boarding, raising, and showing horses. Carol traveled the world enjoying Europe, Mexico and the Caribbean. She enjoyed taking cruises and even journeyed through the Panama Canal. The lake always held a special place in their hearts often hosting large groups of family and friends. However, her favorite destination was Destin, Florida, where she and the family made countless road trips over the years. Trips were often characterized by Jim sight-seeing while Carol shopped and she never missed a good TJ Maxx along the way.

Carol was deeply devoted to service and leadership. She was an active member of First Lutheran Church and School, where she served as President of the Parent Teacher Association, Youth Director, and worked with Cub Scouts. She was a member of the Junior League of Fort Smith, where she was involved with the Riverfront Festival, and the Junior Civic League, participating in the Red Stocking Revue. Carol served as President of the Green Country Paint Horse Association in Oklahoma for several years. She often opened her home for fundraisers supporting organizations such as Girls Inc., and the Single Parents Association. Carol was a faithful member of Grace Community Bible Church, where she supported Vacation Bible School and remained actively involved. She cherished her weekly time with the Tuesday Girls, a close-knit group of friends who gathered regularly to socialize and laugh together. Special thanks to Sarah Haynes and Sandra Brock for their loving care and commitment to Carol which made her life so much brighter.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Brigadier General Edward “Bud” Schneider and Elaine Bemberg Schneider. She is survived by her devoted husband, Jim Glidewell; her children, Mimi Glidewell, Nick Glidewell (Ellie), and Jamie Glidewell (Michelle); her grandchildren, Courtney Nixon (Neil), Katy Carriger (Garrett); and her cherished great-grandchildren, Denzleigh and Cooper Nixon, and James Carriger. She is also survived by her sisters, Nancy Huett (Tom) of Thorsby, Alabama, Judy Roberts, and sister-in-law Paula Glidewell of Greenwood; her niece, Mimi Snow-Astley (Amy) of Los Angeles, California; her nephew, Christopher Snow (Pamela) of Dallas, Texas; and her great-nieces, Tiffany Snow of Dallas, Texas and Samara Snow-Astley of Los Angeles, California.

A celebration of life will be held Tuesday, January 13 at 3:00pm at Grace Community Church, 4001 Brooken Hill Dr, Fort Smith, AR 72908. Following the service, family will greet friends in the foyer. Under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made in Carol’s memory to the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith, Arkansas College of Health Education in Fort Smith, and Kitties and Kanines.

“The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” — Psalm 121:8

“And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” — Revelation 21:4

Carol Elaine Schneider Glidewell lived a life full of love, leadership, laughter, and purpose—and she will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.