Last edited 10:49 a.m., Feb. 27, 2012Robert Glazier, 84, longtime publisher and editor of Springfield! Magazine, died Feb. 19 at the Manor at Elfindale.
Glazier and his wife, Harriette, who preceded him in death, ran Springfield! Magazine for nearly three decades. The publication focused on personal profiles, community events and local history, according to his
obituary posted on the Web site of Walnut Lawn Funeral Home.
Glazier closed the 29-year-old Springfield! Magazine in March 2008, citing declining health. The Glaziers came on board at the publication four months after it was founded by Larry Dixon in June 1979, according to
Springfield Business Journal archives.
Glazier had a lifelong career in media, starting in his teens when he was editor of his high school newspaper. While attending Drury University in 1944, Glazier joined the staff of the Springfield Daily News, and after attaining the rank of sergeant in the U.S. Army while serving in the military, he transferred to the University of Wichita, where he earned his bachelor's degree in journalism and political science while serving as assistant editor for the Wichita Eagle, according to his obituary.
He later served as an instructor of journalism and director of public information for the university. Glazier returned to Springfield in 1953 to serve as Springfield Public Schools' first public relations director.
Before becoming publisher of Springfield! Magazine, Glazier again left Springfield to work as associate director of television and radio with a Methodist church in Nashville, Tenn.; as general manager of educational station WDCN-TV in Nashville; as general manager of educational station KETC-TV in St. Louis; and as president of the Southern Educational Communications Association in Columbia, S.C.
In the local community, Glazier served on the boards of Council of Churches, Systematic Savings and Loan, Springfield Little Theatre, Springfield Regional Opera and CoxHealth.
In 2008,
Glazier received the Missourian Award. He also was given the Distinguished Alumni Award from Drury University, the Ozarks Heritage Award, the Silver Beaver Award from the Boy Scouts of America and the Silent Hero Award.
Glazier also was preceded in death by his brother, Bud Glazier. He is survived by his sons - Greg Glazier and Jeff Glazier and his wife, Pat - his grandson, Justin Glazier; his brother, Bill Glazier, and his wife, Mary; and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service was held Saturday at St. Paul United Methodist Church, according to his obituary.
