Glenda Faye Junkin, Beloved Matriarch of Harrisburg, Dies at 86

The force of nature was known for her quick wit, contagious laughter, and unwavering love for family.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 12:02am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph of a warm, intimate family gathering, with blurred figures embracing and laughing against a backdrop of soft, glowing light, conceptually representing the vibrant personality and deep love that defined Glenda Junkin's life.The joyful spirit and familial bonds that defined Glenda Junkin's life are captured in this abstract, impressionistic portrait.Trumann Today

Glenda Faye Junkin, a longtime resident of Harrisburg, Arkansas, passed away on April 13, 2026, at the age of 86. Junkin, affectionately known as "Momma," "Grams," and "Gimma," was remembered as a vibrant and charismatic woman whose larger-than-life personality and deep devotion to her family left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

Why it matters

Junkin's passing marks the end of an era for the close-knit community of Harrisburg, where she had been a fixture for nearly seven decades. As a beloved matriarch, she embodied the values of small-town life and served as a unifying force for multiple generations of her family.

The details

Born in 1940 in Trumann, Arkansas, Junkin graduated from Harrisburg High School in 1958 and went on to work as a cosmetologist before taking jobs at American Greetings and Acme Frame. In 1967, she married the love of her life, Bill Junkin, with whom she shared 49 years of marriage. Throughout her life, Junkin was an active member of the First Baptist Church and enjoyed gardening, fishing, and volunteering at the Bread of Life Food Pantry. She was also known for her love of travel and adventure.

  • Glenda Junkin passed away on April 13, 2026, at the age of 86.
  • Her funeral service will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Harrisburg.

The players

Glenda Faye Junkin

A longtime resident of Harrisburg, Arkansas, who was known as a vibrant and charismatic woman with a larger-than-life personality and deep devotion to her family.

Bill Junkin

Glenda Junkin's husband of 49 years, with whom she shared a loving marriage.

Ricky Craft

Glenda Junkin's son.

Connie Vanhoozer

Glenda Junkin's daughter.

Pastor B J Chatman

The pastor who will conduct Glenda Junkin's funeral service.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Glenda Junkin's family will hold a private interment at a later time following the funeral service on April 17, 2026.

The takeaway

Glenda Junkin's passing marks the end of an era for the close-knit community of Harrisburg, where she had been a beloved matriarch and unifying force for multiple generations. Her vibrant personality, unwavering love for family, and commitment to her community will be deeply missed.