LANCASTER, SC ~ Delfina Ortega Glaze (Espinosa), lovingly known as “Crucita,” was born on August 8, 1948, in Agua Dulce, Panama. She lived a full life centered on faith, family, and education. She is survived by her three children, Robert Edward Glaze (Shannon), Susan Melanie Knight (Tommie), and Linda Crystal Glaze (Andy); and her grandchildren, Harrison Reed Blackwell, Morgan Hailey Glaze, Mason Thomas Knight, and Corbin John Knight.

She loved her family deeply, and her grandchildren brought her great happiness. She showed her love in a simple but unforgettable way—by holding the hands of those she loved tightly. She believed strongly in God and taught her family the importance of faith and the value of a good education.

Delfina held many roles throughout her life, including administrative assistant, Spanish translator, school volunteer, Spanish teacher, and sales associate. After her retirement from Springs Industries, she spent her time with her grandkids, feeding the birds, and watering her flowers.

She loved to travel and was especially proud of traveling to Costa Rica and Colombia as a young woman. She also completed two cross-country U.S. road trips. As an Army wife, she lived in Panama at Fort Kobbe, Fort Sherman, and Fort Davis, as well as Fort Benning, Georgia; Fort Ord, California; and Fort Jackson, South Carolina, before finally settling in Lancaster, South Carolina.

Delfina loved the United States—especially the American flag—as well as horses and the color blue. Her favorite flowers were red roses, and her favorite birds were cardinals. Her favorite foods were pepper steak and carrot cake. She had many talents, including cake decorating, cooking, and sewing. While living in California, she sewed dresses to sell at the flea market and had a nice little weekend business. She will also be remembered for her style. She was always beautifully put together with her red lipstick and red nails.

She loved all animals. Her family pets included Cookie the parakeet; dogs King, Princess, Bugle Boy, and Colt; and cats Tiger, Reno, Scary Cat, and Mouse. In her memory, the family welcomes donations to LSPCA Rescue.

Delfina will be remembered with love for her faith, her devotion to family, and the many memories she leaves behind. Her family will gather privately for a meal and celebration of her life.

There are no words to truly capture how loving and kind she was. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.