Glenda Faye (Overly) Stapleton

Glenda Faye (Overly) Stapleton, devoted wife, loving mother, cherished friend, and adventurer at heart, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2024, at 9:00 p.m. PST in Coos Bay, Oregon. She was 84 years old.

Born on June 8, 1939, in Greensboro, North Carolina; Glenda Faye (Faye) was the daughter of Edward Overly and Myrtle (Odell) Overly. Tragically, her mother, Myrtle, passed away when Faye was only two years old, and she did not have the opportunity to know her. She was lovingly raised by her Aunt Essie (Odell) Stewart and Uncle Robert Stewart.

Under their care, Glenda Faye, her Aunt and Uncle eventually moved to Washington DC, where she attended school at Anacostia High School. It was during this time that she met her beloved husband, The Rev. George O. Stapleton, at Fountain Memorial Baptist Church, where they attended services and formed a bond that would last a lifetime.

Before Glenda Faye and George were married, she worked as a Secretary at the State Department in Washington, DC, where her dedication and skills were recognized. She was then selected to work as the Secretary for the UN Ambassador in New York, New York, while George was completing his Bachelor's Degree. When they met in Washington DC, despite their young age, their connection was instant.

Glenda Faye and George were married on June 13, 1959. They patiently waited six years before marrying, honoring Glenda's promise to her mother not to be a teenage bride. After their marriage, George went to work for the US Government, where he dedicated himself until his retirement. Glenda Faye supported her husband by moving seven times in 14 years in support of his career with the US Government, the Military, and the Ministry through a Pastoral Career and Seminary.

Glenda Faye was the eldest of three sisters. She is survived by her younger sister, Sandra (Overly) Dean. Glenda Faye's other sister, Rebecca (Overly) Hawks, passed away before her. Glenda Faye cherished her memories with both sisters and held them close to her heart. Faye was also very close to her cousin Jean (Oates) Hall, whom she considered more like a sister. Jean and her husband Harold Hall are dear friends of George and Glenda Faye, sharing many cherished memories and moments together.

Glenda Faye and George settled in Golden, Colorado, where they raised their family. She was the proud mother of George O. Stapleton Jr., Glenn Stewart Stapleton, and Jennifer Leeanne Stapleton. Jennifer is married to Carlo Vanbrabant, and Glenn is married to Judith (Griffiths) Stapleton.

Known for her quick wit and great sense of humor, Glenda Faye had a knack for making others laugh. She loved to share her witty observations and jokes, brightening the lives of those around her with her infectious laughter. Faye was also known for her sage advice, whether solicited or unsolicited. She had a wealth of wisdom to offer and was always ready to lend an ear and offer guidance to those in need.

A fiercely protective mother and wife, she would defend her children and her husband at all costs. Her devotion knew no bounds, and she stood by her family through thick and thin.

Glenda Faye had a passion for shopping and traveling, always eager to discover new places and find unique stories to bring home. She owned The Lemon Cheese Company, a British Tearoom and Gift Shoppe from 1984 to 1995 with her partner Barbara Hall, traveling often to England and Wales on buying trips.

An avid reader, Faye found joy in the pages of her favorite books and loved going for coffee every day at Barnes and Noble. She formed deep friendships both in the United States and in the United Kingdom, her generosity endearing her to all who knew her.

Glenda Faye and George found solace and strength in their faith at St. Paul's Episcopal Church; they were active members since 1992 where George served as Minister of Evangelism. Glenda Faye's eagerness to help, infectious laughter, and generous spirit left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and resilience.

Services will be as follows:

May 10th, 2024 (viewing at Crown Hill Mortuary)

May 11th, 2024 Service and Reception at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church to begin at 11:00am MST

May 13th, 2024 Burial at Fort Logan National Cemetery at 11:00am MST