Glenda Williams Curl

Glenda Williams Curl, owner and publisher of the Wilcox Progressive Era passed away September 3rd, 2025, still at the helm of the newspaper she helped lead until her final days. She leaves behind a legacy of devoted journalism and unwavering community service.
Glenda began her life long journey in journalism in 1962 when her husband, M. Hollis Curl, was appointed editor of the Choctaw Advocate in Butler, Alabama. She played an integral, early role in compiling copy, photographs and helping to shape stories. They purchased the Choctaw Advocate in 1966. Over the years, the Curls acquired newspapers in Demopolis, Marion and Montevallo. In 1969, Hollis and Glenda bought the Wilcox Progressive Era. By 1980 they sold all the papers but the Progressive Era, which traces back to 1887.
Following Hollis Curl’s passing in 2010, Glenda courageously carried on the responsibilities of publisher. She served in the community for many years on the Board of Registrars and served on the 911 Board up until the time of her death. Glenda also served several years on the Board of the Alabama Press Association. Glenda was named one of The Top Women in Alabama Media in 2019.
Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at Canton Bend Methodist Church with Pastor Braxton Eldridge officiating and Dunklin Funeral Home directing. Burial followed in the church cemetery.
Glenda was preceded in death by her parents, Glenn and Mildred Williams; her husband, M. Hollis Curl; son, Mark Hollis Curl; grandson, Ethan Landres Van Sice and brother, Richard Williams.
She is survived by her daughter, Julie Curl Van Sice (Michael Baker); grandsons, Mark Hagan Curl; Matthew Hunter Curl; John Wesley “Ley” Curl (Lauren); Tyler Edward Tait; great grandchildren, Matthew Hollis Curl; Ashlyn Ember Tait; James Edward Tait; John Wesley (Wells) Curl; Mary Emerich Curl; William Scott Curl and daughter-in-law, Sandy Curl-Davis (Billy Davis).
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in her memory to Canton Bend Methodist Church.