Glenda Sweatt

Glenda Kay Sweatt, a beloved wife, friend, and cherished member of the community, was born on May 18, 1942, in Salem, Illinois. She passed away peacefully on January 31, 2025, surrounded by the warmth of memories that she built over a life filled with passion, laughter, and love.

Glenda was the daughter of Mary Cantrell Vursell and Lucian Vursell. Growing up in a nurturing home, she was influenced by her mother's culinary talents and her father's musical artistry as a bluegrass fiddler and banjo player. From her early days, Glenda displayed an appreciation for music, playing the piano at the local country church and later learning to master the saxophone. Her dad was largely responsible for her wonderfully quirky sense of humor and her generosity.

Her academic journey began at Eastern Illinois Teacher's College, where she embraced her passion for education as a grammar school teacher in Southern Illinois. However, her thirst for knowledge led her to the University of Illinois, where she earned a master's degree in library science. This newfound expertise opened doors for Glenda in the vibrant world of technical librarianship, first in Livermore, California, and ultimately at Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she cultivated countless friendships.

In 1989, Glenda's life took a delightful turn when she married Bill Sweatt. Their union was not just a marriage but a blend of love for each other and the joyful companionship of their beloved dogs. Together, they shared a passion for folk dancing, traversing the landscapes of Sweden, France, England, Germany, Austria, and Turkey, all while creating beautiful memories.

Throughout her life, Glenda was known for her generous spirit, hosting gatherings filled with laughter, authentic New Mexican cuisine, and her famous Swedish cookies. Her warmth and kindness extended to Bill's children, whom she embraced as her own, sharing in their lives with love.

In 2013, amidst a memorable family trip back and forth across the channel, Glenda began to exhibit the early signs of dementia, a battle she faced with remarkable grace and humor over the next decade. Even as her memory waned, her love of life remained a guiding light. Bill attended to her with unwavering devotion through thick and thin, and their bond remained strong until her final days, where they shared stories of the joyous life they built together.

Glenda succumbed to the flu at the end of January 2025, but her spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew her. In remembrance of her life, a wake will be held in her honor at the French Funeral Home on Wyoming Boulevard in Albuquerque on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. We invite all who loved Glenda to join us in sharing memories and stories, celebrating the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to a charity of your choice to honor her spirit of generosity.

Glenda Kay Sweatt was a true gem, whose laughter and kindness touched so many lives. We will forever remember her as a beacon of love, friendship, and inspiration.