Glenna Higgins

Glenna Higgins, age 92, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2025, at Ohio's Hospice. Glenna led a remarkable life, steeped in rich history and deep community involvement, leaving a lasting legacy of service, kindness, and leadership.

Born in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Glenna's early years took her to many places along the East Coast and around the world. She lived in Jerusalem, Beirut and even Japan, where she embraced different cultures and perspectives. Eventually, Glenna's family settled near Columbus, OH while she attended an all girls high school in Massachusetts.

After high school graduation, Glenna attended Ohio Wesleyan University where she met and married her husband Charles and began raising a family before graduating from Capital University. During her early life experiences she developed the foundation for a life of learning, growth, and service to others. She was deeply involved with the YWCA Dayton and Vandalia, where she served as President and played a critical role in empowering women and advocating for social justice in her community.

In addition to her work with the YWCA, Glenna served on the board of the United Way, where she helped address community needs and support vital services. She was also an active member of the League of Women Voters, dedicated to promoting civic engagement and the rights of voters.

Glenna's professional career included working at Maria Joseph Living Care Center, where she served as both Volunteer Coordinator and Independent Living Coordinator. Her compassionate nature and dedication to helping others were evident in everything she did, and she made a lasting impact on both residents and staff. Additionally, she volunteered at The National Museum of the Air Force, where her love of history and commitment to preserving it was shared with visitors.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Glendora Hartman, Charles, son Jeffrey, son-in-law Eric Omlor and brother Paul Evan.

Glenna is survived by her daughters, Christi (Scott) and Megan, along with her grandchildren, Marisa (Darryl), Collin (Nikki), Kelsee (Kyle), Meredith, Keira; step-grandchildren Sarah (Logan) and Zachary (Madison) as well as her great-grandchildren, Aiden, Bella, Tegan, Rhian, Chase, Scarlett, Brooks, Griffin, Gavin and Kai. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In keeping with Glenna's generous spirit, her body was donated to the Boonshoft School of Medicine at Wright State University to help further medical research and science. A private service will be held to honor her life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Glenna's name to Ohio's Hospice or the YWCA.

Glenna's happiest times were when she was with her family and friends. She will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her family, her community, and the many organizations she served. Her legacy of kindness, leadership, and service to others will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to know her.