Remembering a True Servant at Roan Mountain: Glenda Gail Gouge
In the heart of Roan Mountain, a community is coming together to remember a remarkable soul, Glenda Gail Gouge, who passed away on November 1, 2024. Described lovingly by her family as having a servant’s heart, Glenda epitomized the spirit of giving and caring for others. Her daughter, Julia Butler, shared heartwarming insights into how her mother dedicated her life to helping those around her.
A Life of Caring
Throughout her life, Glenda took care of family, friends, and neighbors alike. For many years, she looked after her mother and two aunts, including one who suffered from Alzheimer’s and spent her final days in a nursing home. “She was always taking care of others, and worked to better the lives of others,” Julia fondly remembered. Glenda’s nurturing spirit was evident in everything she did, from supporting her family to reaching out to her church community.
Active Member of the Community
Glenda was a passionate member of the Burbank Free Will Baptist Church, where her love for service truly shone. She was more than just a Sunday attendee; she took her faith seriously and dedicated countless hours as a youth teacher and leader. “Mom remained active in the church until her health failed her,” Julia shared proudly.
Family Gatherings and Favorite Recipes
Family was paramount to Glenda, especially during holiday celebrations. She loved preparing large meals for her loved ones, and her talent in the kitchen was legendary. Her famous butterscotch pie was a staple that needed to be made multiple times to satisfy everyone at the table. “She was a good cook, a gift she passed on to my sister, Cyndi,” shared Julia, who now lives in North Carolina while Cyndi resides in Roan Mountain.
Top-Notch Craftsmanship
Beyond her cooking skills, Glenda was also a talented seamstress, crafting clothes for her daughters and herself. Julia recalled, “She made our dresses and pantsuits. She was always very frugal and often shopped at thrift shops. She could make our second-hand clothing look brand new.” Glenda’s resourcefulness was a lesson in creativity for her family, ensuring they always looked their best.
Her Work Life
In her younger years, Glenda kept busy with house cleaning jobs and caring for others in their homes. She enjoyed a fulfilling role as a teacher assistant at the Sequoyah School in Elizabethton, where she found her niche working with children. Julia described it perfectly: “Mom enjoyed being around children, so the Sequoyah position was ideal for her.” Children at church and in her community benefited from her patience and love.
Creating Memories
Despite her busy life serving others, Glenda always prioritized family moments, especially her annual birthday trip with her daughters. Whether it was a getaway to the beach or exploring nearby attractions, these trips solidified their bond as a family.
A Lasting Legacy
Glenda Gail Gouge was laid to rest on November 4 in the Gouge Family Cemetery on Heaton Creek. Her passing leaves a significant void not only in her family but also in the church and the Roan Mountain community. As her daughter Julia eloquently put it, “Doing for others was what made her different.” Glenda truly stood as an example of selfless love and service, and she will be remembered fondly by all who had the honor of knowing her.
