1935-2020

Glenda Marra of Sunland, age 84, died peacefully on June 24. She was born July 26, 1935 in Omaha, Nebraska and was the daughter of Glenn and Faye (Broderick) Jackson.

Known to have a nurturing soul with a kind heart, Glenda made a lasting impression on so many whom she met. Ever the optimistic one, she had a knack for cheering people up. Her mother even called her “Amazing Grace.” She carried herself with positivity and compassion, attracting new friends from all walks of life everywhere she went.

Glenda worked at the Northrup Corporation during the Apollo space program then shifted careers to work in the music entertainment field. She always held a special place in her heart for animals, partly because of her time living on a farm in Nebraska. Stray cats somehow found their way into her loving arms frequently and she supported multiple horse rescue organizations. Hummingbirds were her favorite, though, as shown through her carefully curated collection of hummingbird photos and numerous feeders at her home.

Glenda met a young man named Anthony Marra Jr. when they were just young teenagers. He swept her off her feet and together they began a love adventure that lasted over 70 years with numerous adventures including countless miles on motorcycles together and taking Alaskan and Caribbean cruises.

Her favorite life experiences included spending summers at her homes in Montana and winters in Sunland. These were some of her most precious memories created every step of the way. Her family and children were her focus. With her signature kind touch and angelic voice, she could both praise and discipline.

Her Catholic faith was a true north guiding light and she remained active in her church, assisting in the office with administrative tasks, for many years.

Nothing pleased her more than becoming a grandmother, doting on and raising her grandchildren with support and encouragement. Her tender heart knew no bounds and the depth of the love she shared with her family, her husband in particular, is unsurpassed and a true inspiration.

Though our Angel on Earth has journeyed home, may all those who loved her most continue to carry on with the light that Glenda so generously shared with us.

Glenda was preceded in death by her parents. Surviving are her adoring husband, Anthony Jr.; two children: David (Anne) Marra and Daniel Marra; two grandchildren: Damon (Becky) Marra and Devin (Alba) Marra; and a great-grandson: Jace. Private services will be held with burial at San Fernando Mission Catholic Cemetery in Mission Hills. A memorial Mass and celebration will be scheduled for a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the many foundations through the Alzheimer’s Organization (www.alz.org).