Rauscher, Glenda
70, of Paradise Valley passed away on March 18, 2017. Glenda was a beloved mother, recent grandmother, sister and wonderful teacher. Glenda was a great friend to all she knew. She was a woman grounded in her Lutheran faith. Glenda was born to Melva and Adolph 'Cap' Rauscher in St. Louis, Missouri on March 9, 1947. Graduating valedictorian of her class at Parkway High School in Chesterfield, Missouri, Glenda went on to become an outstanding student at Swarthmore College which she maintained close ties to for many years. Later, she earned Masters degrees at Harvard as well as University of New Mexico. In 1976 she moved to Arizona with her husband Warren Laffey. She worked for many years at SRP before becoming a teacher at Xavier College Preparatory where she worked for 20 years. Her enthusiasm for the art of teaching American literature was unrivaled. Glenda enjoyed traveling up until her last days including twice to Europe in 2016 as well as a trip to upstate NY to visit woman's rights history sites. She was a fan of the National Parks and prided herself in her heavily stamped National Parks Passport. Her love of music led her to direct the Arcadia Music Academy and perform in many choirs including the Washington University Civic Choir, CD Singers, Bach and Madrigal Society and the ASU Choral Union. Glenda will be greatly missed by all of those who are near and dear to her. She is survived by her sons and their spouses Emerson Laffey (Esperanza), Jefferson Laffey (Arlenne), newborn grandson Douglass Allende Laffey, sister Melissa Williams, and brother David Rauscher. Celebration of life will be held on Sunday, March 26 at 3 PM at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church at 3641 N. 56th St. in Phoenix. Service will be followed by a reception at the same location. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to be sent to the Audubon Society, the Sierra Club, and KBAQ/KJZZ radio stations. In addition, those who would like, can contribute to the go-fund-me campaign to purchase a bench plaque at the Phoenix Zoo in Glenda's name.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Mar. 25, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Glenda Rauscher

15 Entries

October 5, 2023

She was an absolutely incredible teacher. I visit this page and think about her and the wisdom she imparted to her students and always being such a supportive and genuinely caring teacher. She stands out in my memories of Xavier as a bright spot and there was nothing quite like hearing her passionate lectures! My condolences to her family, she was an amazing and inspiring woman.

Gail Hartman

March 19, 2022

Every time I chose a good book, to support the younger women in my life, or a walk in nature: I celebrate your mom and remember Dorothy´s ruby slippers "There is no place like home" mantra and feel her presence cheering me on. Hugs.

Gail Hartman

March 19, 2021

As I transition to retirement, Glenda continues to inspire me through the thin places of time and space. Her friendship means even more with each passing year.

Gail Hartman

March 19, 2020

Glenda continues to inspire me to be present to others, and to always, always be a strong woman of purpose. Only a memory, thought away. Blessings, Gail Hartman

Gail Hartman

March 19, 2019

Many times a week, i view the ruby red slippers badge on my carpet dash board, and smile remembering Glenda's smile and words of wisdom. This week with a new grandbaby on the way....I am remembering her joyful anticipation of the birth of her first grandchild. Many blessings. She is remembered always.

Karen Arft (Hoffmann)

April 20, 2017

Dear Family,

Larry and I were so sorry to hear of Glenda's passing. I remember many visits between our families as we grew up. Many good memories there. Out most sincere condolences to siblings and family. She was taken too soon.

Her love of books inspired all who knew her to share this passion.

Gail Hartman

April 2, 2017

My sincere condolences to Glenda's family, for all those moments when you will have her with you spiritually but not physically: May her wit, words of wisdom, and love sustain you and remind you she remains with each of you deep within your heart.

Too soon, too soon for all of us who have been blessed to call her friend. Our shared belief that feminism was not to be feared, but embraced endeared her to me as friend, and wise mentor.

May all be well with her soul and ours due to her gentle witness to her faith and caring ways for all lucky enough to share a time beside her.

Kathleen Conway

March 28, 2017

Glenda was a true friend, an inspirational teacher, an indefatigable advocate, a devoted mother, a kindly mentor, a faithful sister, a hope-filled Christian , a gifted singer, and an avid conversationalist. Never did I leave her presence without having gained from her wisdom and kindness. I will sorely miss my dear friend taken from us too soon. She will live on in the sweet fragrance she leaves behind and in the memories she created, and, of course, in the countless lives touched by her sons and students. Pass to a sweet repose, dear friend.

March 27, 2017

Ms. Rauscher was one of the best teachers I had at XCP. She was no doubt the most passionate teacher and her zeal and enthusiasm was contagious. I'm so sad to hear of her passing but she definitely left a legacy behind that no one will ever be able to replace.

March 26, 2017

Thank you for being my teacher and AcaDec coach when I attended Xavier. Although we weren't necessarily close, I do remember the passion you held for teaching. One of my fondest memories include when we studied the Grapes of Wrath and you showed us the song "The Ghost of Tom Joad," the depths of which still touch me to this very day (and one that I still have in my playlist because of you- something I will never forget). Thank you for the part that you played in my education and in my life. You were a great and passionate woman.

Claudia Morcus

March 25, 2017

Dear sister of my cherished friend Melissa. How we looked up to you. Thank you for our cherished memories. I'll think of you whenever I hear Bach. Heaven has another exceptional musical angel.

C L

March 25, 2017

It's verydifficult when we lose those we love. Please accept my deepest condolences. May your memories warm your heart and bring a smile to your face in time. My hope is that God will give you the strength and power you needto cope withthe loss of your loved one. Isaiah 40:29

Mary Harkins

March 25, 2017

It was an honor to call Glenda my friend...a friend who towered among most with her gifts of integrity, intelligence, humility and courage. Be at peace after living a purposeful life and surrendering only after a courageous struggle. I will always remember you as my dear friend.

March 25, 2017

It was a real pleasure to have known Glenda. She was a kind and caring person who loved all facets of life. She epitomized "carpe diem". She will be missed.

March 24, 2017

Glenda was one of the most genuine and kind teachers I had the privilege of knowing while teaching at Xavier. Although I was at XCP only a short while, Glenda always made me feel welcome.

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