Viola Mae Glidden

Viola Mae Glidden, age 94, peacefully passed away on January 25, 2025, at Delmar Gardens in Lenexa, Kansas.

Services will be held at a later date at Forest Hill Memorial, Lexington, North Carolina. 

Born on May 31, 1930, in Sugarcreek, Ohio, the daughter of Elmer and Mary (Flinner) Bitikofer. She was a radiant spirit whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of all who knew her. Her education began humbly at Barrs Mills Elementary, where she graduated from the 8th grade in a one-room schoolhouse—a reflection of her resilience and determination. These early years laid the foundation for a life filled with love, laughter, and the values she instilled in her family.

She was united in marriage to Billy Edwin Glidden on November 26, 1948. From this union they had three sons, Allen, Byron, and Terry. Viola was a loving mother who managed to raise three rambunctious boys, yet her kind and loving nature never wavered. 

Viola dedicated many years of her life to her career as a seamstress for Zimmer Patient Care in Dover, Ohio, where her craftsmanship was a testament to her meticulous nature and artistic flair. Beyond the stitches and seams, Viola was a woman of faith and commitment, proudly serving as a devout member of Missionary Alliance Church in Lexington, North Carolina. Her belief in Christ was a guiding force, enriching her life and the lives of those around her.

Viola is fondly remembered for the Sunday dinners she lovingly prepared for her family after church, serving as a cherished tradition that brought together her children and the extended family. Cooking was not just a duty for Viola; it was a passion that filled her home with aromas of love and comfort. She delighted in being outdoors and took joy in her hobbies of making candy and sewing, showcasing her creativity and sweet tooth that endeared her to many.

Viola's legacy is one of unwavering love, kindness, and grace. She never spoke a bad word about anyone, exemplifying a life of compassion and understanding. Her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of her loved ones, reminding us all of the beauty of family and faith. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Mary Bitikofer, husband, Billy Glidden, and a son, Allen Glidden. 

Viola is survived by her two sons, Terry (Judy) Glidden, of Oak Grove, Missouri, and Byron (Debra) Glidden, of Eugene, Oregon, daughter-in-law, Rhonda Glidden, of Lexington, North Carolina, two brothers, Elmer Bitikofer, of Sugarcreek, Ohio, and George (Mary) Bitikofer, of Strasburg, Ohio, as well as six grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, all of whom were touched by her love and caring spirit.

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